DILLON COUNTY, S.C. — Dillon County is reeling after two young men were killed and several others injured in two shootings that occurred Monday evening. The incidents, which authorities confirm are connected, have left the community in shock as police continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the violence.
The first shooting occurred around 5:00 p.m. on South 9th Avenue. According to the Dillon Police Department, officers responded to reports of a male victim suffering from a gunshot wound. Emergency responders transported the victim to a local hospital, but he later succumbed to his injuries.
While officers were still processing the scene on South 9th Avenue, they received reports of a second shooting around 5:20 p.m. on South 1st Avenue. When police arrived, multiple people were found with gunshot injuries. Emergency personnel rushed the victims to the hospital, and one of them later died, marking a second tragic loss in the span of less than an hour.
The Dillon County Coroner, Donnie Grimsley, identified the deceased as 22-year-old Tyrese Smith and 18-year-old Ja’Quese Alford, both residents of Dillon. Autopsies for the young men are pending, and authorities continue to examine evidence from both scenes to determine the exact sequence of events and cause of death.
Police Chief Monroe Herring confirmed that the two shootings are connected. Investigators have identified several persons of interest and are actively interviewing witnesses, reviewing surveillance footage, and gathering additional evidence to understand the motive and identify those responsible. Officials emphasize that the investigation is ongoing and ask for patience from the community as they work to bring clarity to the incidents.
Authorities are urging anyone with information regarding the shootings to contact the Dillon Police Department at (843) 774-0051, the Dillon County E-911 non-emergency number at (843) 841-3707, or the Dillon Police Department Anonymous Tip Line at (843) 774-0051. Residents are encouraged to share any information, no matter how small, that could help investigators bring justice to Tyrese Smith, Ja’Quese Alford, and their families.
