Update: Arrest in Former Aiken Jeweler’s Murder Tuesday
A former jeweler in Aiken was found murdered in his home early Tuesday morning, and authorities have announced an arrest in the case today.
Aiken Public Safety officers were called to the 900 block of Brookhaven Drive around 8 am to a report of a possible burglary.
Once inside the home, officers said they found the body of 78-year-old Swint “Porky” Bradberry in a bedroom. Aiken County Coroner Darryl Ables said Bradberry died at the scene from blunt force injuries to the head. An autopsy will be performed Thursday in Newberry.
Arrested Today
Aiken Public Safety officials have arrested 27-year-old Alexander Boone of Aiken in connection with Bradberry’s death. In addition to Murder, Boone has also been charged with Burglary 1st Degree.
“This is an ongoing investigation, and as part of that investigation, we will be attempting to identify any kind of motive, or any potential connections, between the suspect and the victim,” according to a news release from the Aiken Department of Public Safety today.
Swint “Porky” Bradberry
The History of Porky Bradberry Jewelry Store
Porky Bradberry Jewelry Store was started by his parents, Swint and Elizabeth Bradberry, in New Ellenton in the 1950s. In the early 60’s, the store moved to Laurens Street in downtown Aiken, then had one more move to Whiskey Road. Bradberry sold the business in 2020.
Bradberry’s Wife Shot to Death More than 40 Years Ago
Suspicions surrounded Bradberry after his wife, Linda Bradberry, was found shot to death December 12, 1982. She was only 35 years old. It took several years, but law enforcement officials accused Bradberry of hiring three hitmen to kill his wife. He was initially charged with her death, but charges were dropped later due to inconsistencies in witness statements. The case was never solved.
Mystery Surrounding Porky Bradberry’s Death Tuesday
The State Law Enforcement Division was called Tuesday to help the Aiken County Sheriff’s Office, the Aiken Department of Public Safety, the Second Judicial Circuit Solicitors Office, Aiken County Coroner’s Office, and the ATF Rage Task Force with the investigation of Bradberry’s murder.
If You Have Information
“Information from the community is vital to solving this and any crime. Anyone with information on this crime is urged to call Aiken Department of Public Safety at (803) 642-7620 or submit an anonymous online tip at Crime Tip City of Aiken, SC Government. The website is www.cityofaikensc.gov.
