North Charleston, January 8, 2026
The tragic shooting of 4-year-old Merci Watson in North Charleston has left the community in shock. Newly released emergency calls shed light on the horrifying scene that followed the shooting, which occurred on December 16. Investigators are actively seeking the public’s help and have announced a reward of up to $25,000 for information leading to an arrest. Efforts to address gun violence in the area continue, with a focus on community support in remembering the young victim and advocating for justice.
North Charleston
Newly released emergency calls are providing further insight into the moments following the fatal shooting of 4-year-old Merci Watson in North Charleston, as authorities and community representatives continue to seek public assistance in resolving the case. Police stated that no arrests have been made, and the investigation remains active. The North Charleston Police Department is offering a reward of up to $25,000 for information that leads to the arrest of the individual responsible for the shooting.
Ongoing Investigation into Child’s Death
The incident occurred on December 16, 2025, when Merci Watson was shot and killed on Van Beern Avenue, just after 6:45 p.m.. Investigators believe the child was either inside or near a white Nissan vehicle at the time of the shooting. This vehicle was later located at a nearby emergency room, where blood was discovered in the back. The Charleston County Coroner confirmed that Watson died at the hospital.
Authorities have identified a dark blue or black BMW 740 Series sedan as a vehicle that may be connected to the deadly shooting. The search for this vehicle is ongoing, and several individuals have been identified as persons of interest. Law enforcement and community activists are urging anyone with information to come forward and assist in the investigation. Efforts to remember Merci Watson and push for an end to gun violence have included community peace walks. Community advocates stress the importance of keeping the child’s name in the public eye to ensure justice.
Urgent Call for Public Assistance
The North Charleston Police Department emphasizes that even small details could be crucial to the case. Citizens can submit tips online to the North Charleston Police, with information that leads to an arrest potentially qualifying for the substantial reward. The community remains deeply affected by the loss of the young child, highlighting a broader concern regarding gun violence in the area.
Other Unresolved Violent Crimes in South Carolina
The ongoing search for justice extends beyond North Charleston, with other significant violent crimes in South Carolina also remaining unresolved.
St. Helena Island Mass Shooting Investigation Continues
On October 12, 2025, a mass shooting occurred at Willie’s Bar and Grill on St. Helena Island, South Carolina, resulting in four fatalities and approximately 15 to 20 injuries. The incident, which took place around 1:00 a.m., involved a shootout between two to three individuals during an informal high school alumni gathering. Among the deceased was 22-year-old Kashawn Smalls-Glaze from Port Royal, along with Chiraad Smalls, A’shan’tek Milledge, and Amos Gary.
Hundreds of people were at the location when the gunfire erupted, leading many victims and witnesses to flee to nearby businesses for shelter. Emergency services transported several critically injured victims to hospitals, while others sought medical attention independently. As of recent reports, no arrests have been made concerning the living perpetrators, although authorities are investigating multiple persons of interest. One of the perpetrators was reportedly among the deceased. The Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office described the incident as a “tragic and difficult” event and appealed for public patience as the investigation progresses.
Broader Efforts Against Gun Violence in South Carolina
These cases underscore the persistent challenges posed by gun violence across South Carolina. The region has experienced other tragic incidents involving young victims, such as the death of 13-year-old Amir Sims in North Charleston on July 22, 2025. Police departments across the state frequently offer rewards for information that leads to arrests and convictions in serious crimes, reflecting the crucial role of community cooperation in law enforcement efforts. Historical records indicate that rewards have long been a tool to encourage public assistance in solving complex cases, such as the 1933 death of Mary Ravenel in Charleston, South Carolina. The ongoing commitment from law enforcement and community leaders aims to ensure accountability and work towards safer environments for all residents.
Community’s Role in Justice
Both law enforcement and community organizations continuously advocate for public involvement in solving violent crimes. Activists and police urge anyone with pertinent information, regardless of how minor it may seem, to come forward. The availability of rewards serves as an incentive, but the collective desire for justice and an end to violence is often highlighted as the primary motivation for community cooperation. Efforts to raise awareness and foster a sense of collective responsibility are crucial in bringing perpetrators to justice and preventing future tragedies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the latest update on the North Charleston 4-year-old shooting?
Newly released emergency calls are providing further insight into the moments following the fatal shooting of 4-year-old Merci Watson in North Charleston, as authorities and community representatives continue to seek public assistance in resolving the case. Police stated that no arrests have been made, and the investigation remains active. The North Charleston Police Department is offering a reward of up to $25,000 for information that leads to the arrest of the individual responsible for the shooting.
When did the North Charleston 4-year-old shooting occur?
The incident occurred on December 16, 2025, when Merci Watson was shot and killed on Van Beern Avenue, just after 6:45 p.m.
What vehicle is connected to the North Charleston 4-year-old shooting?
Authorities have identified a dark blue or black BMW 740 Series sedan as a vehicle that may be connected to the deadly shooting. The search for this vehicle is ongoing, and several individuals have been identified as persons of interest.
What happened in the St. Helena Island mass shooting?
On October 12, 2025, a mass shooting occurred at Willie’s Bar and Grill on St. Helena Island, South Carolina, resulting in four fatalities and approximately 15 to 20 injuries. The incident involved a shootout between two to three individuals during an informal high school alumni gathering.
Have there been arrests in the St. Helena Island mass shooting?
As of recent reports, no arrests have been made concerning the living perpetrators, although authorities are investigating multiple persons of interest. One of the perpetrators was reportedly among the deceased.
Is there a reward for information in the North Charleston 4-year-old shooting?
Yes, the North Charleston Police Department is offering a reward of up to $25,000 for information that leads to the arrest of the individual responsible for the shooting.
Key Features of Unresolved Violent Crimes in South Carolina
| Incident | Location | Date of Event | Victims/Casualties | Reward Offered | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fatal Shooting of Merci Watson | North Charleston, South Carolina | December 16, 2025 | 1 fatality (4-year-old child) | Up to $25,000 | Active investigation, no arrests, 911 calls released. |
| Mass Shooting at Willie’s Bar and Grill | St. Helena Island, South Carolina | October 12, 2025 | 4 fatalities, 15 to 20 injuries | Not explicitly stated in provided info for this specific event. | Ongoing investigation, multiple persons of interest, no arrests for living perpetrators. |
| Fatal Shooting of Amir Sims | North Charleston, South Carolina | July 22, 2025 | 1 fatality (13-year-old child) | Not explicitly stated in provided info. | Ongoing investigation. |
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