July 19, 2025

Man Arrested for Reckless Homicide After Fatal Hit-and-Run

News Summary

A 24-year-old man has been charged with reckless homicide and hit-and-run following a deadly incident that killed 25-year-old Jermaine Brown. The suspect, Chemar Ny’Zjell Washington, was reportedly speeding at 80 mph when he struck Brown and fled the scene. Washington was arrested weeks later, and the community mourns the loss of a young life, highlighting concerns over reckless driving in residential areas.

North Charleston – A 24-year-old man has been arrested and charged with reckless homicide and hit-and-run resulting in death following a fatal hit-and-run incident involving a pedestrian that occurred on June 19, 2025. The victim, identified as Jermaine Brown, 25, from Orangeburg, succumbed to blunt force injuries shortly after being struck near the intersection of Otranto Road and Emmie Street just after midnight.

The suspect, Chemar Ny’Zjell Washington of Jamestown, was arrested on July 16, nearly a month after the incident. According to authorities, Washington was driving a gray 2021 Infiniti Q50 luxury sedan at an estimated speed of 80 mph, significantly exceeding the established speed limit of 35 mph. During the reckless maneuver, Washington reportedly crossed the double yellow line into oncoming traffic while attempting to overtake another vehicle, leading to the collision that resulted in Brown’s death.

Following the collision, it is alleged that Washington fled the scene, abandoning the vehicle at a nearby apartment complex. Police investigations unfolded soon after the incident as they discovered the damaged sedan, whose injuries matched those sustained by Brown. Surveillance footage revealed Washington exiting the car and subsequently entering an apartment unit. Notably, Washington did not inform law enforcement about the collision and only discussed it casually with other residents, none of whom reported the information.

On July 18, Washington appeared before Magistrate Judge Amanda Haselden, who set a $25,000 surety bond for the reckless homicide charge but denied bail for the hit-and-run charge. As matters currently stand, Washington remains incarcerated at the Charleston County Jail awaiting further judicial proceedings.

Interestingly, Washington was out on bail at the time of the tragic incident, having faced previous legal troubles. He was arrested for third-degree domestic violence in September, alongside a series of traffic violations. Court records reveal an array of infractions dating back to late 2023, which include speeding, failure to wear a seatbelt, and having an open container of alcohol in his vehicle. Over recent years, Washington has accrued approximately $824 in fines stemming from these traffic violations.

The case has drawn attention not only because of the severity of the charges but also due to the circumstances surrounding the accident. Authorities have emphasized the importance of adhering to traffic regulations and the dangers of reckless driving, particularly in residential areas where pedestrians frequently walk.

The events leading to Brown’s death underline a grim reminder of the potential consequences of reckless behavior behind the wheel. The investigation continues as law enforcement explores all aspects of the case, while the community mourns the loss of a young life taken too soon.

As this legal situation evolves, updates regarding the court proceedings and any further developments related to Washington’s case will be closely monitored. The justice system’s response to this incident may play a pivotal role in shaping conversations around road safety and pedestrian protections in North Charleston.

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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.