The cousin of murder suspect Daniel Harmon is wanted in connection with the killing of Aiken County victim Jamilla Smith, whose body has not been recovered.
Bryan Alexander Hampton Jr., 35, of Augusta, is being sought for accessory after the fact to murder, authorities said. He is described as a black male, approximately 6’2” tall, 160 pounds, black hair and brown eyes. Hampton has ties to Augusta and Aiken County.
In December, Aiken County authorities charged Harmon with her murder while they continue searching for her. Harmon was her abusive ex-boyfriend who had blood in his rented vehicle.
Harmon was taken into custody Dec. 5 for domestic violence and Smith’s family have not heard from her since reporting her missing. Later, in the missing person investigation, investigators obtained an arrested warrant charging Harmon with kidnapping her.
Authorities say Harmon likely killed the victim on the evening of Dec. 2 in the area of 425 Old Jackson Highway in the Jackson area. Smith called 911, stating her ex-boyfriend broke into her house and was chasing her down the road. On the 911 call, Smith sounded out of breath.
“When the dispatcher asks her where she will meet the deputy, a car engine can be heard revving before Jamilla is heard screaming and the phone appears to drop,” authorities said in a murder affidavit. “A male voice is heard telling Jamilla to get into the car and he will take her to the emergency room. Jamilla continues to scream and can be heard yelling no, don’t touch me, don’t hurt me please, and you hit me.”
“Search warrants were obtained for Jamilla Smith’s cell phone and the results show no activity since December 2,” the report says.
Authorities say they believe Harmon killed her, especially since her family had not heard from her in weeks. Also, Harmon was found to have hit Jamilla Smith with a vehicle and did not transport her to the hospital.
If anyone has any information on this investigation, the whereabouts of Hampton, they are encouraged to contact the Aiken County Sheriff’s Office at 803-648-6811. Tipsters can also send a message about this case by going to www.aikencountysheriff.net .
