A somber representation of the tragic shooting that occurred on Interstate 26, highlighting the impact of gun violence in communities.
A tragic highway shooting has led to the sentencing of 26-year-old Kimani Demetrius Pinckney to 20 years in prison. The incident, which occurred on Interstate 26 and resulted in the death of 27-year-old Marcelis Haynes, highlights the ongoing issue of gun violence in communities. Pinckney was identified as the shooter through surveillance footage and later pleaded guilty to voluntary manslaughter. This heartbreaking case underscores the devastating impact of such violence on families and communities during a time meant for holiday celebration.
In a heart-wrenching case that has left many in the North Charleston community stunned, Kimani Demetrius Pinckney, a 26-year-old resident, was sentenced to 20 years in prison for his role in a fatal shooting on Interstate 26. The incident, which occurred on November 25, 2020, has cast a shadow over the holiday season and serves as a sobering reminder of the violence that can erupt in everyday situations.
The chaotic event began when Pinckney allegedly opened fire on a dark-colored Volkswagen, a vehicle that was carrying 27-year-old Marcelis Haynes and a male driver. The car was traveling eastbound when a witness reported hearing gunfire. As the police responded, they discovered the Volkswagen, now a scene of tragedy. Despite efforts to save him, Haynes succumbed to his injuries later at a local hospital. The driver also suffered injuries but thankfully survived the ordeal.
Law enforcement quickly pieced together the shocking chain of events. Using surveillance footage from both Interstate 26 and nearby businesses, they identified Pinckney as the shooter. A crucial witness recounted how a white Toyota Camry, driven by Pinckney, had swerved in front of her before he fired multiple shots into the unsuspecting Volkswagen. This evidence proved pivotal in establishing Pinckney’s guilt in the case.
It wasn’t until December 9, 2020, that Pinckney was arrested following an extensive investigation that included tracking his cellphone records. Initially facing serious charges of murder and attempted murder, he later agreed to plead guilty to a lesser charge of voluntary manslaughter on February 20, 2025. This plea bargain ultimately led to the sentence handed down by the Ninth Circuit Chief Judge Roger M. Young.
During the sentencing phase, emotions ran high as the judge underscored the violent nature of the crime and its devastating impact on Haynes’ family. The court heard from Haynes’ grandmother, who expressed her deep sorrow while seeking closure for her family. She highlighted the pain of losing a beloved grandson and emphasized the future implications for his children.
Judge Young remarked on how senseless this shooting was and the unfortunate consequences of gun violence, particularly among the youth. The state, seeking justice for Haynes and his family, requested the maximum sentence of 20 years. Pinckney did receive credit for the more than four years he spent in pre-trial detention, which may lessen the time he actually serves.
This tragic incident serves as a stark reminder of the pervasive issue of gun violence that continues to affect families and communities across the nation. The wounds inflicted by such violence are long-lasting, leaving families struggling to cope with loss, and reminding everyone of the importance of preventing future tragedies. As Pinckney begins his lengthy sentence, the community reflects on the profound implications of youth violence and the importance of addressing the root causes to prevent more families from experiencing such heartbreak.
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