News Summary
A series of shootings in Charleston over the weekend has left one woman dead and several others injured. City officials and police are working to combat the rising gun violence in the area, with increased patrols and community engagement being prioritized. The recent surge reflects larger societal issues surrounding violence and gun accessibility, prompting calls for enhanced law enforcement measures.
Charleston – A series of weekend shootings in Charleston has left one woman dead and multiple others injured, prompting local law enforcement to intensify their efforts to address rising gun violence in the area.
The latest shooting occurred on Johnson Street on the evening of April 27, 2025, claiming the life of 24-year-old Briana Cason. This marked the fourth shooting incident in the city within a span of just two days. Following her death, a makeshift memorial was established near a playground at the intersection of Johnson and America streets, honoring her life.
In the aftermath of these incidents, City Police Chief Chito Walker announced an increase in patrols in high-crime areas and emphasized the seriousness of the situation, stating that the recent uptick in shootings is “not acceptable.” The police department will collaborate with the county sheriff’s office and community partners to develop strategies aimed at curbing the violence.
Briana Cason was shot around 8:30 p.m. during a dispute among multiple people in the vicinity. Authorities are still investigating whether she was an active participant in the altercation or simply an innocent bystander caught in the crossfire. No arrests have been made in connection with her death, although 39-year-old Tyris Asbury has been charged with three counts of assault and battery in relation to an unrelated incident.
The shooting spree began early on April 26, when a bystander was shot while attempting to assist after a vehicle crash involving a stolen car. This incident, which took place around 3 a.m. in downtown Charleston, resulted in the arrest of two minors, a 15-year-old and a 13-year-old. The younger suspect faces serious charges, including attempted murder and possession of a firearm during the commission of a violent crime.
Another shooting occurred later that same day at the Spanish Oaks Apartments, where a teenager was shot after being robbed and pistol-whipped around 11:30 p.m. While the victim is expected to make a full recovery, law enforcement has yet to apprehend any suspects in that case as well. A further incident unfolded in the early morning hours of April 27 when officers responded to gunfire near America and Johnson streets, finding a teenage victim with non-life-threatening injuries. A 16-year-old has since been charged with assault and battery in connection with this incident.
As police ramp up their investigations, they are urging the community to come forward with any information that may assist their efforts. Individuals with knowledge related to the shootings can contact the police at 843-720-2422 or submit a tip online. Local leaders have highlighted the urgent need for greater parental involvement and outreach initiatives aimed at youths regarding issues of violence and gun accessibility.
In light of these tragic events, Charleston Mayor William Cogswell intends to propose additional measures to enhance law enforcement capabilities in an effort to prevent further acts of violence. Community advocate Keith Smalls has underscored that the recent incidents are reflective of more profound societal issues, stressing the importance of community accountability in addressing the root causes of this disturbing trend.
The recent surge in gun violence in Charleston serves as a grim reminder of the challenges facing many urban areas, as residents and officials work together to seek solutions that promote safety and peace within their communities.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Shooting Incident at Columbia Place Mall Injures One
18-Year-Old Arrested for Possession of Machine Gun in North Charleston
Chaos Erupts at Lancaster Walmart: Multiple Arrests After Shootout
Tragic Shooting in Wando Claims Life of Local Teen
Judicial Ruling Highlights Prosecutor’s Role in Oxford Shooting Case
Tragic Incident in Greenville: Young Woman Shot by Deputies
Horry County Community Reels After Violent Shooting Incident
Charleston County Deputies Investigate Shooting Incident in West Ashley
Tragedy Strikes in Hopkins, South Carolina: Teenager Loses Life in Accidental Shooting
Marc Maron to Perform in Charleston, SC
Additional Resources
- Live 5 News
- Wikipedia: Gun Violence in the United States
- ABC News 4
- Google Search: Weekend shootings Charleston
- Post and Courier
- Google Scholar: Charleston Gun Violence
- Count on 2 News
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Gun Violence
- Charleston City Paper
- Google News: Charleston
