The community of Dillon County is mourning the tragic and sudden loss of 23-year-old Kim Rowland, who was fatally shot in the early morning hours of May 13, 2026, near Vanity Lounge on Highway 301 North in Hamer. The incident has left family members, friends, and residents in deep grief as authorities continue working to understand what led to the deadly violence.

According to Dillon County Coroner Donnie Grimsley, Rowland was officially identified as the victim following the shooting. Officials said emergency personnel responded to the scene near the nightlife area in Hamer after reports of gunfire. When responders arrived, they found Rowland suffering from fatal injuries and immediately began emergency measures.

Despite those efforts, Rowland was pronounced deceased at the scene. Authorities later confirmed that his body was transported to the Medical University of South Carolina, or Medical University of South Carolina, where an autopsy will be conducted as part of the ongoing investigation into the circumstances surrounding his death.

At this time, law enforcement officials have not released any information regarding a suspect or possible motive. Investigators have stated that the case remains active and ongoing, with detectives continuing to gather evidence, review early findings, and speak with witnesses who may have been in the area during the shooting.

As news of Rowland’s death spread throughout Dillon County, friends and loved ones began expressing shock and sorrow over the sudden loss. Many are remembering him as a young man whose life ended far too soon, sharing memories and tributes while struggling to come to terms with the tragic reality of what happened.

The Dillon County Sheriff’s Office continues to assist in the investigation, urging anyone with information to come forward. As the community waits for answers, residents across Hamer and surrounding areas are standing in support of Rowland’s family, offering prayers and condolences during this painful and uncertain time.