Belton Man Charged in Staton Murders

The Anderson County Sheriff's Department has arrested Matthew Fulbright, 29, of Belton, in connection with the murders of Skip and Jo An Staton. Fulbright has been charged with murder and armed robbery in the case. Fulbright apparently knew the Statons through their jewelry business.

Anderson County Sheriff John Skipper said in a press conference Thursday morning that the arrest came after a phone tip on the case and that Fulbright apparently set up a meeting with the Statons under the ruse to taking them to the home of a person who had a large quantity of jewelry for sale. Fulbright then allegedly took them to an isolated area, now believed to be the Waterside Road location, where the crime took place.

Skipper said that Fulbright has no criminal record beyond minor traffic violations. Skipper also said the investigation remained ongoing and is reluctant to say if there were other suspects in the crime.

Skipper also said Fulbright led law enforcement to the body of Jo An Skipper, which was found last night off S.C. 413 near Iva.