COLUMBIA, S.C. — The Richland County Coroner’s Office has identified the victim of a fatal shooting Sunday as 15-year-old Jayen Gladden. Authorities say the teenager was shot by a 14-year-old who is now facing charges.
“I feel like I have been screaming from the top of my lungs for years at this point about the same issues that continue to happen over and over and over again,” said Rep. Jermaine Johnson, who represents the district.
Johnson said the incident occurred less than two miles from his home, and he personally knew those involved.
“For something like this to happen, I don’t even know how it could have been prevented outside of more education about the destruction that guns can do to people’s lives,” Johnson said.
Richland County deputies were called to the 100 block of Hunting Avenue on Sunday morning, where they say they found Gladden sitting in a chair with a gunshot wound to his upper body. Officials said Gladden was transported to a local hospital, where he later died from his injuries.
The Richland County Sheriff’s Department said a 14-year-old has been charged with involuntary manslaughter and illegal possession of a weapon by a minor.
Investigators reported that Gladden had been visiting the 14-year-old, who was handling a handgun and attempting to clear the weapon when it accidentally discharged, striking Gladden.
“I’m praying for all the people who are involved with this,” Johnson said. “Because not only did we lose one young person’s life, we also lost another young person who will be changed forever, going to jail for however long he has to go. For the rest of his life, what is he going to be thinking about, accidentally taking the life of one of his friends?”
An incident report obtained by News19 states the shooting was not bias-motivated, and no gang involvement was present.
Unanswered questions remain, including who the weapon belonged to, the exact relationship between the victim and suspect, and whether additional charges will be filed.
Richland County Sheriff Leon Lott is expected to release additional details at a press conference on Tuesday.