On August 3, 2025, at approximately 4:15 a.m., a tragic shooting occurred in Spartanburg, South Carolina, resulting in the death of seven-month-old Zymir Demarco Smith. The incident took place at an apartment in the 300 block of Collins Avenue, specifically at 314 Collins Street, Apartment B. According to the Spartanburg Police Department, officers responded to reports of gunfire and discovered evidence of a shooting, including bullet damage to the residence and a trail of blood inside the apartment. Following the trail, they found Zymir, who had suffered a gunshot wound to the neck while sleeping beside his mother. Emergency medical services were immediately called, but despite efforts to save him, Zymir was pronounced dead at Spartanburg Regional Medical Center.
Preliminary investigations indicate that the infant and his mother were asleep when multiple rounds were fired into the home from outside by several unknown suspects. No other injuries were reported. The Spartanburg County Coroner’s Office confirmed the victim’s identity as Zymir Demarco Smith. Major Art Littlejohn of the Spartanburg Police Department described the incident as a “senseless and heartbreaking tragedy for our entire community” and pledged to use all available resources to identify those responsible. The motive for the shooting and how the home was targeted remain unclear.
Zymir’s family, devastated by the loss, remembered him as a “happy, cheerful, butterball” who loved watching cartoons and eating. His aunt, Karen Smith, shared fond memories of him in his bouncy chair, calling him “cute and adorable” and expressing disbelief that someone could harm “an innocent child.” The family is seeking justice and has urged anyone with information to come forward.
The investigation remains active and ongoing, with no arrests reported as of August 3, 2025. The Spartanburg Police Department is asking for public assistance and has provided a contact number, 864-596-2065, for anyone with information, noting that tips can be submitted anonymously.