GIFFORD, S.C. — A quiet Sunday morning in the Gifford area was shattered by gunfire, leaving one man dead and two others injured. The Hampton County Sheriff’s Office is continuing to investigate the fatal shooting, which occurred in the early hours of Sunday, January 4, 2026, and has deeply impacted the close-knit community.
According to authorities, deputies were called to the scene around 5:17 a.m. after receiving reports of a shooting on Laston Street. When deputies arrived, they discovered multiple people suffering from gunshot wounds. Emergency responders rushed to provide aid as the area was secured and an investigation began.
One of the victims, identified as 34-year-old Dequan Marquis Hill of Gifford, South Carolina, was pronounced dead at the scene. Officials said Hill died as a result of his injuries, marking a tragic loss for his family and friends. Two other individuals were also shot during the incident and were transported to a medical facility for treatment. Their current conditions have not been released.
The South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) is assisting the Hampton County Sheriff’s Office with the ongoing investigation. Gifford Police also responded to the scene to help manage the situation and gather information. Investigators have not yet shared details about what led up to the shooting or whether any suspects have been identified.
Hampton County Coroner Anna Fields responded to the scene and handled the death notifications. Officials said she worked closely with Hill’s family during this difficult time. The Hampton County Sheriff’s Office expressed its gratitude to the Coroner’s Office for its professionalism, care, and compassion shown to the family in the hours following the tragedy.
Sheriff Anthony Russell released a statement addressing the shooting and its impact on the community. “This incident has deeply impacted our agency and our community,” Russell said. “We extend our deepest condolences to the family and loved ones of Mr. Hill, as well as to all those in the Gifford community affected by this tragedy.” The investigation remains active, and anyone with information is urged to contact the Hampton County Sheriff’s Office at 803-914-2200, submit tips anonymously through the Sheriff’s Office mobile app, or call the anonymous tip line at 1-866-942-1120.
