Teen Shooting Tragedy in Hopkins, South Carolina
Hopkins, South Carolina, was shaken by a tragic incident on Sunday when a 15-year-old boy was killed in a shooting at a friend’s home. A 14-year-old, whose identity has not been disclosed due to his age, has been charged with involuntary manslaughter and illegal possession of a weapon by a minor, according to the Richland County Sheriff’s Department.
What Happened
The shooting occurred around 10 a.m. when deputies responded to a report of gunfire in the 100 block of Hunting Avenue, near the intersection with Lower Richland Boulevard. Upon their arrival, officers found 15-year-old Jayen Gladden sitting in a chair, suffering from a gunshot wound to the upper body. He was quickly transported to a nearby hospital but unfortunately succumbed to his injuries shortly thereafter.
Details of the Incident
According to the sheriff’s department, the unfortunate event took place while Jayen was visiting his friend, the 14-year-old suspect. During this visit, the younger teen was handling a handgun, and while attempting to clear the weapon, a single bullet was accidentally discharged, striking Jayen.
The investigation by the sheriff’s department quickly established that the 14-year-old was responsible for the shooting, although it remains unclear whether he is currently being held at a detention facility. Authorities are still conducting investigations to ascertain how the juvenile obtained the gun used in the tragedy.
No Other Injuries Reported
Fortunately, there were no other injuries reported during the incident. The local community has been left in shock following the incident, as the loss of such a young life is deeply felt among family, friends, and neighbors.
Ongoing Investigation
The sheriff’s department is committed to continuing the investigation surrounding the shooting. They are particularly focused on where the firearm originated from, as this could raise additional concerns regarding gun access for minors.
Community’s Response
The shooting incident has sparked conversations in the community about gun safety and the importance of responsible handling and storage of firearms, especially in households with children. Residents voiced their concerns about the growing prevalence of gun-related incidents among teenagers and the need for increased education on the potential dangers of firearms.
Conclusion
This tragic event has brought to light the pressing issues surrounding youth, gun access, and safety within the community. As the authorities continue their investigation, it is hoped that measures will be taken to prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future. The loss of young Jayen Gladden serves as a sobering reminder of the need for greater awareness and responsibility regarding firearms among minors in our society.
More information will be made available as the investigation unfolds, and the community will be closely following updates from local law enforcement.
Author: STAFF HERE MYRTLE BEACH
The HERE Myrtle Beach Staff Writers are a collaborative team of journalists, editors, and local contributors passionate about delivering accurate, timely information to the Myrtle Beach community. As part of the HEREcity.com Network, which powers over 100 U.S. city sites including HEREcolumbia.com, our staff draws on collective experience in South Carolina journalism to cover everything from business sales and real estate developments to dining deals and community initiatives. Our Expertise and Background Local Roots in Myrtle Beach Our team includes lifelong Myrtle Beach residents and SC natives with deep knowledge of the area’s history, economy, and culture. We’ve covered key events like the recent developments along the Grand Strand, Myrtle Beach’s tourism and hospitality industry, and growth in local education sectors (e.g., Coastal Carolina University programs). Collective Experience With over 50 combined years in journalism, our staff has backgrounds in print, digital media, and community reporting. We prioritize fact-based stories, drawing from sources like the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce, city government records, and on-the-ground interviews. Commitment to Quality Every article is a group effort, involving research, editing, and verification to ensure reliability. We adhere to journalistic standards, citing credible sources and updating content as new details emerge.
