RICHLAND COUNTY, S.C. — Authorities have identified and arrested a suspect in connection with the fatal shooting of 18-year-old Dion Briggs, who was killed earlier this week on Nearview Avenue. The Richland County Sheriff’s Department (RCSD) confirmed that 17-year-old Jordan Lemmon has been charged as an adult in the case.
Deputies were called to the 1700 block of Nearview Avenue around 7 p.m. on November 11 after receiving reports of gunfire. When officers arrived, they found Briggs suffering from a gunshot wound to the upper body. Despite emergency efforts, he was pronounced deceased at the scene, leaving family members and the community devastated.
Investigators say the shooting occurred during an attempted firearm purchase. According to RCSD, evidence gathered at the scene and from witness interviews led detectives to identify Lemmon as the primary suspect. He was located in Sumter, South Carolina, and taken into custody following a traffic stop. Lemmon now faces charges including murder, criminal conspiracy, and possession of a weapon during a violent crime.
Authorities have not released further details about how the firearm exchange was arranged, but they emphasized the dangers of illegal gun transactions. Sheriff’s officials said the case highlights the risks young people face when engaging in unregulated or informal weapon deals. “This tragedy could have been prevented,” one investigator noted. “We hope this serves as a reminder of how quickly these situations can turn deadly.”
Briggs’s family has described him as a bright and caring young man whose life was full of potential. His death has shaken the community, prompting calls for justice and renewed discussions about youth safety, gun violence, and prevention efforts. Friends and neighbors have shared tributes online, remembering his laughter, energy, and the promise of a life cut short.
Law enforcement continues to encourage anyone with information about the case to contact the Richland County Sheriff’s Department at 803-576-3000 or CrimeStoppers at 1-888-CRIME-SC. As the investigation moves forward, officials remain focused on ensuring accountability and honoring the memory of Dion Briggs, whose tragic death has left a lasting mark on the Richland County community.
