A 17-year-old pregnant high school student from Barnwell, South Carolina, Maylashia Hogg, tragically missed her scheduled birth induction, raising immediate alarm among her family members. The Barnwell High School student, who was nine months pregnant, was first reported missing on February 8, 2024, and was found dead in a ditch ten days later, just under half a mile from her residence.
Due to an inadequate initial response from local law enforcement, the family reached out to Kimberly Kite from the Broken Link Foundation, a non-profit organization that specializes in locating missing individuals. Last seen on February 8, her family grew increasingly worried when she was still missing on February 13, the day her baby was to be induced. On Sunday, February 18, around 3:45 p.m., the police confirmed the discovery of Hogg’s body in Barnwell County.
Hogg, who was excited about becoming a mother, had named her unborn child London Charity, in remembrance of her mother who died a year and a half ago. She is remembered by her community and family as a lively teenager who had aspirations of resuming her education and pursuing a nursing career after her daughter’s birth.
The disappearance and subsequent death of Hogg has deeply impacted her family. Robert Payne, the cousin of the deceased, expressed his grief and anger, stating that the person responsible for the crime should be held accountable. He emphasized that Hogg was still a child herself, about to become a mother to a child.
A memorial service for Hogg and her unborn daughter was held on Monday, February 19, at the location where her body was discovered. The service saw the congregation of family, friends, and community members mourn their loss.
An autopsy has been scheduled for this week to determine the cause of death, which could potentially shed light on the circumstances surrounding this tragic event. As of now, no suspects have been identified in connection with Hogg’s death and the case remains under active investigation, with authorities declining to release further details.
The Broken Link Foundation, in conjunction with local law enforcement, is urging anyone with information related to Hogg’s disappearance and death to step forward as they continue their search for answers and justice.
