SUMTER, S.C. — Frustration is growing in Sumter County after three separate shootings occurred over the past week, leaving one child dead and others on edge.
“What’s it gonna take to do something?” asked one anonymous Sumter resident who spoke to News19, reflecting the community's concerns.
The first shooting took place on Monday, October 7, when 9-year-old Gregory Deron Robinson Jr. was shot and killed while lying in bed at his home between West Brewington Road and Thomas Sumter Highway. Investigators found more than two dozen bullet holes in the house, with deputies determining that 28 rounds had been fired into the home.
The second incident occurred on Wednesday morning. According to Sumter Police, someone fired into the home of 21-year-old Ty’Heim Anthony James around 7 a.m. James reportedly left his home afterward and began firing a gun along Robney Drive into another home nearby. Although there were people, including children, in the second home, no injuries were reported.
The third shooting unfolded on Saturday morning when deputies discovered a man’s body near a home on Byas Road. Further investigation led the Sumter County Sheriff’s Office to believe this incident was related to another shooting that occurred earlier on Duffie Drive around 2 a.m.
The recent string of violence has left local residents concerned for the safety and reputation of their community. One resident, who wished to remain anonymous, shared their frustrations.
“When our town and our county is googled, it’s embarrassing to see our crime and murder rates, that come up, Why would someone want to come here? But It’s a precious community with wonderful people and generous people who want the best for it, but we need everybody to step up, do better," the anonymous resident added.
In the case of the 9-year-old who was killed, the Sumter County Sheriff’s Office is offering a $10,000 reward for information leading to an arrest. Anyone with information is urged to call Crime Stoppers at 1-888-CRIME-SC.