June 25, 2025

Shooting at Juneteenth Celebration Leaves One Dead, Nine Injured

News Summary

A shooting incident during a Juneteenth celebration in Anderson County resulted in one death and multiple injuries. The tragic event occurred near a local Veterans of Foreign Wars post, leading to chaos as emergency responders arrived to assist the victims. The deceased has been identified, and an 18-year-old suspect has been charged with murder. This incident raises concerns about community safety during public events and highlights the need for increased security measures.

Anderson County, South Carolina – A shooting incident during a Juneteenth celebration in Anderson County left one person dead and nine others injured on June 21, 2025. The tragic event unfolded around 10 p.m. near a local Veterans of Foreign Wars post, turning what was meant to be a festive occasion into a scene of chaos and devastation.

The deceased has been identified as 35-year-old Laporshia Janae Gray Cobb, who succumbed to a gunshot wound to her abdomen. The Anderson County Coroner’s Office has confirmed that her death has been classified as a homicide, raising concerns about community safety during public gatherings.

Emergency response teams swiftly arrived at the scene, with over 100 first responders, including more than 50 law enforcement officers, EMS personnel, firefighters, and officers from the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources. Responders were met with a chaotic scene as witnesses reported that the crowd, estimated in the hundreds, began to scatter, leaving behind shoes and debris on the roadway.

Medical assistance was promptly provided to the victims. One individual was airlifted to Greenville Memorial Hospital, while at least eight others were transported to hospitals in Anderson and Greenville counties. Reports indicate that two of the victims suffered severe injuries, while the remaining individuals received treatment for gunshot wounds at AnMed Medical Center.

In connection with the shooting, 18-year-old Tiyelle Rakelle Demon Hollings has been apprehended and charged with murder along with possession of a weapon during a violent crime. Hollings is known as a rising senior at Westside High School and was previously a member of the school’s basketball team. His arrest has raised questions about youth involvement in violent crime, particularly during public events.

During a court hearing following the arrest, Cobb’s family expressed their distress over the situation, specifically requesting that Hollings be prohibited from contacting them. The emotional toll on families and the community has been significant, with many grappling with the tragic consequences of violence during a celebration intended to commemorate freedom and unity.

The investigation into the shooting remains ongoing, with authorities exploring various leads and considering the possibility of additional arrests. Law enforcement officials have urged anyone with information about the incident to come forward and provide tips anonymously, emphasizing the importance of community cooperation in solving violent crimes.

This shooting incident marks a solemn reminder of the potential for violence to disrupt community events and highlights the challenges that cities face in ensuring safety. As Anderson County begins to process the aftermath, community leaders and residents alike are calling for increased awareness and measures to prevent future tragedies.

Juneteenth is celebrated across the United States to commemorate the emancipation of enslaved African Americans and is traditionally characterized by festivities celebrating freedom and culture. The shooting during this year’s event has cast a shadow over public celebrations in the area and raised urgent questions about security at large gatherings.

As the community mourns the loss of Cobb and supports the recovery of the injured, the hope remains that measures will be taken to ensure that future celebrations can proceed without violence and that all residents can feel safe in their community.

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

Author: STAFF HERE CHARLESTON

CHARLESTON STAFF WRITER 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.