DARLINGTON, SC – Deadly gunfire broke out on Tuesday afternoon, resulting in the death of a student. The victim was fatally shot in the parking lot of the Darlington-Lee Adult Education campus, as confirmed by the local school district. The student, who was part of the adult education program, was rushed to the hospital but later succumbed to their injuries. The Darlington County School District and Coroner Todd Hardee confirmed the death.
The incident, which occurred just before 1 p.m., has been described as “heart-wrenching” by Dr. Tim Newman, superintendent of the Darlington County School District. He expressed his condolences to the family of the deceased student and praised the swift response of law enforcement and school staff in securing the campus buildings.
The investigation into the shooting is being carried out by local law enforcement and the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division. The school district has pledged to cooperate fully with the authorities throughout the investigation. Earlier in the day, the law enforcement division confirmed the death of a “subject” at the hospital following the shooting but did not disclose further details.
Darlington police, who were called to the scene following reports of gunfire near 100 Magnolia Street, the school’s address, have requested the law enforcement division’s assistance in the investigation. The victim was transported to the McLeod Medical Center in Florence. The police have assured the public that there is no immediate threat to the surrounding area.
In response to the incident, all buildings and schools in the Darlington area were placed on “secure status” shortly before 1 p.m., restricting entry and exit. This measure has since been lifted. The school district has also arranged for additional law enforcement officers to be present during school dismissal, which proceeded at the usual time.