In Richland County, South Carolina, a vibrant community was shaken by a senseless act of violence that claimed the life of 19-year-old JoKayne Carter. The fatal shooting unfolded in broad daylight at The Roost, a bustling apartment complex on Southern Drive, known for its appeal to University of South Carolina students seeking a home away from home. As the sun climbed high on Friday, August 22, 2025, a gunshot shattered the calm, leaving a young man dead and a community grappling for answers.
The Richland County Sheriff’s Department responded swiftly to reports of gunfire at 1051 Southern Drive, arriving just after 12:30 p.m. to a grim scene. Deputies discovered JoKayne Carter, unresponsive, with a gunshot wound to his upper body. Despite the efforts of emergency responders, Carter was pronounced dead at the scene, his life tragically cut short. The Richland County Coroner’s Office later confirmed his identity, casting a somber shadow over the tight-knit Arthurtown neighborhood.
Within 24 hours, the Sheriff’s Department made significant strides in their investigation, bringing two suspects into custody. Tyron Shelley, a 19-year-old from the Earlewood area, was apprehended at his home following a lead that identified a gold Chevy Tahoe as the suspect vehicle. A search of Shelley’s residence uncovered a chilling piece of evidence: a firearm stolen from Florence County, now linked to the crime. Meanwhile, 20-year-old Ta’John Goodwin, with the support of his family, turned himself in at the sheriff’s headquarters on Saturday, August 23. Both young men now face murder charges and are being held at the Alvin S. Glenn Detention Center, awaiting their day in court.
Sheriff Leon Lott, a steadfast figure in Richland County’s fight against crime, addressed the tragedy with a heavy heart. He noted that this incident marks the county’s 14th murder investigation of 2025, a stark reminder of the challenges facing the region. Yet, Lott emphasized a point of pride: every one of these cases has led to arrests, a testament to the relentless pursuit of justice by his team. “We’re still working to determine the motive behind this shooting,” Lott said, underscoring the ongoing effort to unravel the circumstances that led to Carter’s death.
The Roost, a complex that prides itself on offering a safe haven for students, became an unlikely backdrop for such a tragedy. Taped off by sheriff’s vehicles on Friday afternoon, the scene was a stark contrast to the complex’s usual vibrancy, with its shuttle service to USC and promises of a welcoming community. Authorities have assured residents that the incident appears isolated, but the loss of JoKayne Carter has left an indelible mark. Non-residents were urged to steer clear of the complex as investigators worked meticulously to piece together the events.
As the investigation continues, questions linger about what sparked this deadly encounter. Was it a fleeting argument, a personal dispute, or something deeper? The community awaits answers, mourning a young life lost too soon while grappling with the reality of violence in their midst. For now, JoKayne Carter’s memory endures, a poignant reminder of the fragility of life and the urgent need for peace in Richland County.