WEST COLUMBIA, S.C. — Authorities in Lexington County are investigating a deadly shooting after a man was found dead outside a home in the West Columbia area Sunday afternoon. The incident has drawn attention from nearby residents as law enforcement works to determine what led to the fatal shooting. Officials say the situation is under control and there is no ongoing danger to the public.
The Lexington County Coroner’s Office identified the victim as 47-year-old Hoyt Mitchell Jennings of Columbia. Coroner Margaret Fisher confirmed that Jennings died after being shot and was pronounced dead at the scene. No further details have been released about the nature of his injuries or how many gunshots were involved.
Deputies with the Lexington County Sheriff’s Department responded to the call around 4:40 p.m. on February 8. The body was discovered outside a residence in the 100 block of Villa Court, a residential neighborhood in West Columbia. Emergency vehicles and investigators were seen at the scene as deputies secured the area and began collecting evidence.
According to the Lexington County Sheriff’s Department, one person has been detained in connection with the incident. Authorities have not yet said if charges have been filed or what role the detained individual may have played. Officials also have not confirmed whether the victim and the detained person knew each other.
Law enforcement officials stressed that they do not believe there is any threat to the public. Investigators believe the incident was isolated and reassured residents that the situation has been contained. Even so, the shooting has left neighbors shaken as they wait for more details to be released.
The Lexington County Coroner’s Office and the Lexington County Sheriff’s Department continue to investigate the case. Detectives are examining the scene, gathering evidence, and speaking with potential witnesses to understand what led up to the shooting. This remains a developing story, and authorities say additional information will be shared as it becomes available.
