Former Grand Strand Shag Club Owner's Daughter and Friend Killed in Upstate Shooting

In a tragic incident at an apartment complex in Mauldin, two women were shot and killed, leaving a community in shock and mourning. The victims have been identified as Mariellen Minor, 41, and her friend, Kim Melissa Thrift, 52. Mariellen, who grew up in the Grand Strand area, was the daughter of the late Harold Bessent, a well-known owner of Fat Harold's Beach Club.

According to reports from our sister station in Greenville, Mariellen had a successful career as a real estate agent in Greenville after graduating from Clemson University in 2004. Her father, Bessent, had passed away in 2015, leaving behind a legacy in the shag club community.

The shooter, identified as Mariellen's estranged husband, Christopher Minor, was found dead the following day, having taken his own life with a self-inflicted gunshot wound. Mauldin police have revealed that the incident occurred when Mariellen and Thrift went to the apartment complex to pick up Mariellen's two children. An argument quickly escalated, leading Christopher to shoot both women in front of witnesses, including minors. It is unclear at this time whether Mariellen's children witnessed the tragic event.

Prior to his death, Christopher was wanted by the police on two counts of murder and two counts of unlawful possession of a firearm in the commission of a violent act. Authorities have revealed that Mariellen's brother-in-law had pleaded with her to report the domestic violence she was allegedly experiencing.

Mariellen and Thrift were residing together in Greenville County when the shooting occurred. The tight-knit community is rallying together to support the families affected by this devastating loss, as they try to cope with the shocking news of the double homicide.

The incident serves as a tragic reminder of the serious consequences of domestic violence and the delicate nature of relationships. As investigators continue their efforts to piece together the events leading up to the shooting, the focus remains on providing support to those impacted by this heartbreaking tragedy.

As the community mourns the loss of Mariellen Minor and Kim Melissa Thrift, their memories will be remembered fondly by those whose lives they touched.