WHITEVILLE — A Superior Court judge has declared a mistrial in the first‑degree murder case of Xavier Antonio Rayquan Thomas, bringing an abrupt halt to a trial that stemmed from a 2023 homicide in the Clarendon community.
Thomas was charged in connection with the death of Julian Juan Fipps, who was found fatally shot inside an overturned Jeep Wrangler on M.M. Ray Road on January 9, 2023. The case drew significant attention at the time, as deputies with the Columbus County Sheriff’s Office launched a multi‑agency investigation that led to Thomas’ arrest later that year.
After multiple continuances and pre‑trial delays, the case finally proceeded to trial this month in Columbus County Superior Court. However, proceedings ended without a verdict after the judge declared a mistrial. Court officials have not yet released details regarding the cause of the mistrial, which can occur for several reasons, including a hung jury, procedural issues, or problems with evidence or testimony.
Thomas remains charged with first‑degree murder, and prosecutors will now determine whether to retry the case. A new court date has not yet been announced.
The mistrial marks the latest development in a case that has been pending for more than three years. Fipps’ family has continued to attend hearings and follow the case closely as it moved through the court system.
The Columbus County District Attorney’s Office is expected to issue further information once decisions are made regarding the next steps in prosecution.
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