21-year-old man was arrested early Sunday morning for attempted catalytic converter theft in Colleton County, his co-conspirator was shot and killed

Colleton County, South Carolina – In the last few years, catalytic converter thefts have been on the rise not just in South Carolina, but nationwide. As we have reported several times in the last months, thieves steal catalytic converters from parked vehicles because the converters have precious metals in them worth hundreds of dollars.

A recent attempted catalytic converter theft in Colleton County was fatal for one person as he was shot and killed during the theft, while his co-conspirator was arrested and charged under a new statute — damaging property during the theft of non-ferrous metals resulting in death.

According to a press release by the Colleton County Sheriff’s Office, the arrested suspect was identified as the 21-year-old Hunter Plummer.

“Plummer is charged under the new statute of damaging property during the theft of non-ferrous metals resulting in death,” deputies said.

The deputies said the incident happened at a home on Deliverance Lane. Authorities responded to Field Creek Lane on Sunday in response to a 911 call stating a man had been dropped off and was not breathing. The second suspect was found dead in a home from his injuries.

The incident is being investigated. This is a developing story. Stay with us for updates when available.