Sumter, SC – October 26, 2025: A year has passed since tragedy struck on Britton Road in Sumter, claiming the lives of 15-year-old Marvin Butler and 12-year-old Basir Wells. This weekend, family members, friends, and community supporters gathered to honor the boys’ memory and renew their calls for justice and safer streets.
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What Happened on Britton Road
On a quiet evening in October 2024, Marvin and Basir were walking together along Britton Road when they were struck and killed by a car. The devastating incident left the Sumter community in shock and two families in unbearable grief.
Since that night, their loved ones have struggled with sorrow, unanswered questions, and a lack of closure. Family members say that despite the community’s outcry, they have had very limited communication with local authorities, and the driver involved has not faced charges.
“They killed our boys,” one family member said through tears. “It’s been a year, and I still cry every day. We want justice, and we want Sumter County to do its job.”
Remembering Marvin and Basir
On Saturday, loved ones and supporters gathered along Britton Road for a memorial walk in honor of Marvin and Basir — two boys remembered for their bright smiles, friendship, and boundless energy.
Dozens of people carried balloons, candles, and posters displaying the boys’ photos. The event was not only an act of remembrance but also a plea for accountability and pedestrian safety improvements in the community.
“It feels good, but it doesn’t feel like justice,” said Lakyesha Nelson, Marvin’s mother. “They loved these kids — all of them. We just want answers.”
For many, the gathering was bittersweet: a moment of unity and love amid the ongoing pain and frustration.
A Call for Justice and Change
Lawshawn Caesar, cousin of Basir Wells, shared how the families have been forced to live with heartbreak and uncertainty for an entire year.
“They just want closure and understanding,” Caesar said. “When you lose your child, it’s not the circle of life — you shouldn’t be the one burying them. They’re asking for support and an end to this story.”
Event organizer Devon Woods said the march was also meant to raise awareness about pedestrian safety and ensure the tragedy isn’t forgotten.
“It means a lot because things like this often get buried,” Woods said. “The family will remember forever — but what about the city? We’re doing this to bring light and hope because the family really needs it.”
Participants also called for better lighting, sidewalks, and traffic signage along rural roads like Britton Road, where many residents walk due to a lack of public transportation options.
A Community United
The Sumter community continues to rally behind the families, offering emotional support and amplifying their calls for transparency and justice. Local churches, youth groups, and community activists joined the memorial walk, vowing to keep Marvin and Basir’s names alive until answers are found.
The families expressed gratitude for the community’s compassion but emphasized that local authorities must take action — not only to bring closure to this case but also to prevent future tragedies.
Moving Forward
As one year passes, Marvin Butler and Basir Wells are remembered not just for how they died, but for how they lived — two boys full of dreams, laughter, and light.
Their families remain determined to turn grief into purpose, urging city and county officials to prioritize road safety and accountability.
“We need Sumter County to show up for itself,” Nelson said. “Just like our community did.”
Anyone with information about the crash that killed Marvin Butler and Basir Wells is urged to contact the Sumter County Sheriff’s Office or local authorities.
This story may be updated as more information becomes available.