News Summary
A disturbing stabbing incident in North Charleston last night has led to the arrest of three individuals, including the child’s father. Witness reports were inconsistent at the scene, complicating the investigation. The child suffered stab wounds and is receiving treatment, while charges have been filed against both parents for unlawful conduct. The assailant has been identified and apprehended swiftly, raising serious safety concerns within the community.
North Charleston: Shocking Stabbing Incident Involving a Child and Father
In a scene that left many in North Charleston reeling, a stabbing incident involving a child and the child’s father unfolded late Sunday night into Monday morning on Rivers Avenue. The unfortunate event has led to the arrest of three individuals, stirring concerns in the community about safety and well-being.
What Happened?
The North Charleston Police received reports of a stabbing in the middle of the night, prompting an immediate response. Arriving at the scene, officers quickly realized that the accounts from witnesses were inconsistent, making it challenging to piece together the full story. However, it didn’t take long for the severity of the situation to unfold. Emergency responders found the young child receiving necessary treatment for stab wounds at a local hospital.
A Disturbing Phone Call
As the authorities pieced together the events, it became clear that the child’s father, Johnelle Reaves, reached out to his mother during the chaotic moments of the incident. According to details that emerged, Reaves allegedly relayed that the child’s mother, Jordon Gathers, was attempting to run him over—a shocking statement that paints a picture of turmoil beyond just the physical altercation. During this phone call, Reaves also disclosed that he had suffered stab wounds, escalating the urgency of the situation.
Charges Filed Against the Parents
In a dramatic twist, both Jordon Gathers and Johnelle Reaves were arrested and charged with unlawful conduct toward a child. The implications of these charges raise serious questions about the environment in which the child found himself during such a perilous incident. Parents are often seen as protectors, but in this case, it seems the lines of safety have been unclear.
The Stabbing Assailant
A third suspect, identified as Akem Joseph Smith, 33, has been pinpointed as the assailant in this gruesome event. Law enforcement officials tracked down Smith in Florence, S.C., shortly after the incident. Thanks to the rapid response and the utilization of the Flock camera system, Smith’s vehicle was located within just 15 minutes of the stabbing. This technological advantage not only highlights the need for community vigilance but also shows how modern tools are aiding police in apprehending suspects swiftly.
What Are the Charges Against Smith?
Akem Joseph Smith is not only facing charges of two counts of attempted murder but also a charge for possession of a knife during a violent crime. These serious allegations underline the gravity of the situation and raise alarm bells about the motives that led to such extreme actions.
Ongoing Investigation
The police have confirmed that the investigation remains active as they seek to uncover more details about what led to this horrific event. Residents in North Charleston are left shaken, grappling with the realities that can unfold in any neighborhood. The incident serves as a stark reminder for families about the importance of safety, communication, and vigilance in their everyday lives.
A Call for Community Awareness
As this tragic situation continues to develop, it presents an opportunity for community members to unite, stressing the importance of watching over one another and standing against violence. The thought of a child being involved in such a brutal incident is hard to comprehend and reinforces the need for effective communication and support within families and neighborhoods.
In the face of adversity, the hope remains that communities can come together to foster environments where incidents like this become a thing of the past. The well-being of our children must always be the top priority.
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Additional Resources
- Live 5 News
- Wikipedia: Stabbing
- WOWK TV
- Google Search: North Charleston stabbing
- WSAZ
- Google Scholar: stabbing crime North Charleston
- WPDE
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Crime
- NBC15
- Google News: Charleston homicide
Author: STAFF HERE CHARLESTON
The CHARLESTON STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREcharleston.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Charleston, Charleston County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Spoleto Festival USA, Charleston Wine + Food Festival, and the MOJA Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Charleston Metro Chamber of Commerce and the Charleston Museum, plus leading businesses in tourism and maritime industries that power the local economy such as South Carolina Ports Authority and the Charleston Visitor Center. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREaiken.com, HEREbeaufort.com, HEREchapin.com, HEREcharleston.com, HEREclinton.com, HEREcolumbia.com, HEREgeorgetown.com, HEREgreenwood.com, HEREgreenville.com, HEREhiltonhead.com, HEREirmo.com, HEREmyrtlebeach.com, HEREnewberry.com, HERErockhill.com, HEREspartanburg.com, HEREaustin.com, HEREcollegestation.com, HEREdallas.com, HEREhouston.com, and HEREsanantonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
