North Charleston, January 10, 2026
Authorities in North Charleston are searching for 21-year-old Dwayne Wright, wanted for the fatal shooting of 4-year-old Merci Watson. The investigation remains a top priority for law enforcement, who are urging the community to provide any information to assist in his capture. A $5,000 reward has been offered for credible tips leading to his arrest. Wright, who is armed and dangerous, has a history of violent crimes, raising concerns for public safety.
North Charleston Police Intensify Manhunt for Suspect in Fatal Shooting of 4-Year-Old Merci Watson
North Charleston, South Carolina – Authorities in North Charleston are actively searching for 21-year-old Dwayne Wright of Summerville, who is wanted for homicide in connection with the fatal shooting of 4-year-old Merci Watson. The North Charleston Police Department, in collaboration with the U.S. Marshals Service, issued an appeal for public assistance within the last 48 hours, emphasizing that Wright is considered armed and dangerous. Police held a press conference on January 9, 2026, to provide updates on the ongoing investigation.
Suspect Identified and Sought
Dwayne Wright has been identified as the suspect in the tragic December 16, 2025, shooting that claimed the life of young Merci Watson near Van Buren Street in North Charleston. Law enforcement officials have launched an intensive search for Wright and are urging anyone with information regarding his whereabouts to come forward. A reward of $5,000 has been offered for details that lead to his apprehension.
Details of the Investigation
The investigation into the shooting has been a top priority for the North Charleston Police Department since the incident occurred. Detectives utilized city asset cameras to aid in identifying the suspect and locating a dark BMW sedan believed to be connected to Wright. While one weapon has been recovered, police believe multiple weapons were used in the shooting. During the January 9 press conference, authorities underscored their commitment to bringing justice to Merci Watson’s family and highlighted the community’s strong desire to prevent such tragedies.
Tragic Incident and Victim
The fatal shooting took place on December 16, 2025, near Van Buren Street, where reports of multiple shots fired prompted police response. Neighbors reported bullets striking their homes and cars. The 4-year-old victim, Merci Watson, was not the intended target of the violence. This incident occurred during a particularly violent 36-hour period in North Charleston in December 2025, although Chief Ron Camacho stated that these specific incidents were not connected to each other.
Suspect’s Background
Dwayne Wright has a history of prior arrests by the North Charleston Police Department for violent crimes. Records indicate he was released on bond in September 2024 for possession of a handgun by an unlawful person, following an arrest in June 2024. In May 2024, Wright was arrested and faced five counts of possession of a weapon during a violent crime and drug trafficking charges. These past offenses contribute to law enforcement’s warning that he is considered armed and dangerous.
Community Engagement and Call for Tips
North Charleston Police are imploring the community to assist in locating Wright, emphasizing that any detail, no matter how small, could be crucial to the investigation. Tips can be submitted anonymously. The department is actively working with the community to ensure justice for Merci Watson’s grieving family and to address the wider issue of violence in the city.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- What is the latest development in the fatal shooting of 4-year-old Merci Watson?
- North Charleston Police are actively searching for 21-year-old Dwayne Wright of Summerville, who is wanted for homicide in connection with the fatal shooting of 4-year-old Merci Watson. Authorities issued an appeal for public assistance within the last 48 hours and held a press conference on January 9, 2026.
- Who is the suspect wanted in connection with Merci Watson’s death?
- The suspect wanted for homicide is 21-year-old Dwayne Wright of Summerville. He is considered armed and dangerous.
- When did the shooting occur?
- The fatal shooting of 4-year-old Merci Watson occurred on December 16, 2025, near Van Buren Street in North Charleston.
- Where did the shooting take place?
- The shooting took place near Van Buren Street/Avenue in North Charleston, South Carolina.
- Is there a reward for information leading to the suspect’s arrest?
- Yes, a reward of $5,000 has been offered for information that leads to the apprehension of Dwayne Wright.
- Was Merci Watson the intended target of the shooting?
- No, police have stated that 4-year-old Merci Watson was not the intended target of the shooting.
- Has the suspect, Dwayne Wright, had previous encounters with law enforcement?
- Yes, Dwayne Wright has a history of prior arrests for violent crimes, including charges for possession of a handgun and drug trafficking in 2024.
Key Features of the Investigation
| Feature | Details | Scope |
|---|---|---|
| Victim | 4-year-old Merci Watson | Local |
| Suspect Wanted | Dwayne Wright, 21, of Summerville | Local |
| Charges | Homicide | Local |
| Incident Date | December 16, 2025 | Local |
| Location of Incident | Near Van Buren Street/Avenue, North Charleston | Local |
| Reward Offered | $5,000 for information leading to arrest | Local |
| Investigating Agencies | North Charleston Police Department, U.S. Marshals Service | Local/State-level |
| Suspect Status | Armed and Dangerous | Local |
| Suspect’s Prior Record | Previous arrests for violent crimes (possession of handgun, drug trafficking) | Local |
| Investigation Tools | City asset cameras, public tips | Local |
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