Community Rallies Behind Hastings Corner Farm and Garden in Wake of Heartbreaking Goat Attack
November 25, 2023
A Disturbing Incident Prompts a Strong Response as the Community Seeks Justice and Support for Mady Hastings
Late Tuesday night into Wednesday morning, tragedy struck at Hastings Corner Farm and Garden when three beloved goats were targeted, attacked, and killed by what appears to be the work of one or two cruel individuals wielding a knife. The incident has left the Hastings family in shock and the community in mourning, prompting a swift response from law enforcement agencies to bring the perpetrators to justice.
The coordinated efforts of the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources (SC DNR), Laurens County Sheriff’s Office, Animal Control, and Laurens City Police have been deployed to investigate this disturbing act of violence against cherished family pets. While the authorities are actively pursuing leads, the Hastings family is reaching out to the community for any information that could aid in the investigation.
The Laurens Police Department, under the leadership of Chief Grounsell, is urging residents to come forward with relevant information, emphasizing the seriousness with which they are treating this ruthless act. The incident occurred between the nighttime hours of Tuesday, November 21, 2023, and the early morning hours of Wednesday, November 22, 2023. Residents can contact Detective A. Smith at [email protected] or 864-681-2351 with any information, even if provided anonymously.
The motive behind the attack remains unclear, but the intentional nature of the violence is evident. This heartless act has not only devastated the Hastings family but has also shaken the entire community as they grapple with the reality of such cruelty.
In response to this tragedy, community members have rallied together to support Mady Hastings and her family. Recognizing Mady’s contributions to the community through Hastings Corner Farm and Garden, where she provides some of the best produce in Laurens County, individuals are determined to turn this moment of darkness into an opportunity for solidarity and healing.
Several kind-hearted community members have stepped up to offer support, including covering the cost of security cameras for Mady’s property.
Additionally, a Go Fund Me account has been set up by Jessica Satterfield, co-owner of Rootimentary. The funds raised in this effort will be used to provide a privacy fence for the Hastings family, enhancing security and preventing future incidents of harm or property damage.
“From the very inception of our restaurant, Mady Hastings has been an unwavering supporter, providing us with the highest quality locally grown produce from her remarkable garden. Her dedication to cultivating excellence and her selfless contributions to our community have been nothing short of inspiring,” said Satterfield. “In light of the recent heartbreaking incident, Caleb and I stand in solidarity with Mady and her family. Let us rally around them, demonstrating that our community is resilient, compassionate, and united against any act of cruelty. Together, we will ensure that the light of Mady’s kindness continues to shine brightly.”
Troy from Barefoot Acres has generously volunteered to construct the fence, and the funds raised will cover the materials and associated fees. Any excess funds will be directed towards compensating Troy for his labor, recognizing the substantial effort required for such a project.
The community’s response aims to not only provide tangible support to the Hastings family but also to send a powerful message that kindness prevails over cruelty. By standing together, the community seeks to demonstrate that evil acts will not define them and that they are grateful for the positive impact Mady and her family have had on the community.
As the investigation continues and the community unites in support, there is hope that justice will be served, and the Hastings family will find solace in the midst of this heartbreaking incident. The outpouring of support reflects the resilience and strength of a community that refuses to let darkness overshadow the goodness that prevails within its bounds.
Click HERE to contribute to the GoFundMe account.
