[2] Rumors of relations between a white woman and a black man had surfaced in the community and McAllister was warned to stay away.

Ignoring warning Bill McAllister and Lincoln Hickson travelled to the area near the old home of H. B. Lee, about 20 miles (32 km) from Florence County.

Shotgun pellets created multiple wounds through Hickson's body including some that entered his mouth and broke his jaw.

[3] Even though Lincoln Hickson was severely wounded he was able to take the body of Bill McAllister in his buggy 7 miles (11 km) to his home.

[3] After the lynching was reported on Magistrate Baldwin, of Lake City, South Carolina investigated the matter.