A heartbreaking case from Summerville continues to affect a family and community even after more than three decades. The story of 13-year-old Crystal Surell, known as “Crickette,” remains one of the most painful unsolved chapters turned justice case in the region.
A Young Girl Who Never Reached School
On November 7, 1990, Crickette left her home in Ladson, heading to school. She had missed the bus and decided to walk, not telling her parents that she had been temporarily suspended from riding it.
That decision changed everything.
When she didn’t arrive at school, panic quickly spread. Police and volunteers searched through wooded areas near her neighbourhood late into the night, hoping to find her safe.
A Devastating Discovery
The next morning, search teams made a tragic discovery. Crickette was found dead in a wooded area near the Oakmont subdivision.
Authorities reported that she had suffered brutal injuries. The case shocked the entire community and left her family completely broken.
Hundreds attended her funeral, showing how deeply the tragedy affected people across the region.
Years Without Answers
For more than a decade, the case remained unsolved.
Despite having possible suspects, investigators did not have enough evidence to make an arrest. During this time:
- The family lived in constant grief and fear
- The community remained on edge
- The case passed through multiple law enforcement officials
Crickette’s parents struggled deeply, and the emotional toll on the family was immense.
Family’s Fight for Justice
In their search for answers, the family even filed a lawsuit against the local school district, arguing that they were not informed about their daughter’s suspension.
They believed that if they had known, she would not have been walking alone that day.
However, the lawsuit was later dismissed, adding to their frustration and pain.
Break in the Case After 13 Years
After 13 long years, investigators finally made progress.
Bryan Lamb was charged with Crickette’s murder. He was just 14 years old at the time of the crime.
Another individual, Eric Castro, was also charged for withholding important information related to the case.
Parole Request Sparks Fresh Pain
Now, decades later, Bryan Lamb has served 20 years in prison and is seeking parole again.
This has reopened old wounds for Crickette’s family, especially her sister, who continues to speak out and keep her memory alive.
