On February 10, 2020, six-year-old Faye Swetlik returned home from school in Cayce, South Carolina, at approximately 3:45 p.m. What began as a routine afternoon quickly turned into a major search effort.

Faye was last seen playing outside near her home shortly after arriving. When she was no longer visible, concern grew, and by around 5:00 p.m., her mother, Selena Collins, reported her missing.

Law enforcement responded immediately, launching a search throughout the Churchill Heights neighborhood. Officers canvassed homes, reviewed security footage, and spoke with residents in an effort to locate her.

Over the following days, the search expanded significantly. Hundreds of tips were received, and volunteers joined officers in searching nearby areas, including yards, wooded spaces, and surrounding properties.

On February 13, investigators discovered evidence in a nearby trash bin, including a rain boot belonging to Faye. The bin was associated with a nearby resident, Cody Taylor, age 30.

As authorities prepared to search Taylor’s residence, they found him deceased from what was described as a self-inflicted gunshot wound.

Shortly afterward, Faye Swetlik was located in a wooded area near her home. Her body had been concealed under natural debris.

An autopsy determined that she died from strangulation, and investigators concluded that the incident occurred within hours of her disappearance.

Authorities stated that the suspect was believed to have taken Faye shortly after she arrived home and later attempted to conceal evidence.

The case had a profound impact on the community, highlighting how quickly such incidents can occur even in familiar surroundings.

Today, the case of Faye Swetlik remains a tragic reminder of the importance of vigilance, community awareness, and child safety.