Charleston, SC – Following a weekend of violence that does not reflect the values of Charleston, Chief Walker reaffirmed the Charleston Police Department’s commitment to public safety, investing in the success of our youth, and mobilizing the community to help prevent future tragedies.

“This past weekend, our city, normally a place of safety and pride, experienced an unacceptable rash of violence, including multiple shootings and a homicide last night. I want to be absolutely clear: this is not ordinary, this is not acceptable, and this is not what we expect or want for our community.

Apart from the Romney Street shooting, where an innocent bystander was shot while attempting to offer help, every act of violence we experienced this weekend stemmed from personal disputes or disagreements that escalated into gunfire. Disturbingly, in three out of the four incidents, juveniles were the ones illegally carrying and using firearms. These three incidents were not random acts of violence; they were the result of preventable conflicts that turned deadly. These are active investigations, and I assure you that my officers and detectives are working tirelessly to bring every responsible individual to justice. We cannot predict with absolute certainty when violence will occur, but you can trust that when it does, the Charleston Police Department will be there to protect, respond, and restore order with swift, professional, and precise action. 

We are actively deploying continuous, overlapping patrols, including joint operations with the Charleston County Sheriff’s Office and collaboration with several non-law enforcement partners. We are focused on enforcement efforts in high-crime areas and locations showing early signs of violence or disorder. Our officers are working to make contact earlier, disperse gatherings that have the potential to escalate, and are working closely with community leaders to intervene before violence can occur. We are also working proactively alongside our Developer of Youth Programs, Jerome Smalls, to engage young people well before they encounter our patrol officers by reaching them early, offering mentorship, and building pathways that lead away from violence.

Still, the truth is undeniable: this challenge extends far beyond law enforcement. It starts at home, in neighborhoods, in relationships, and in how we teach and mentor the next generation. As I said earlier this weekend, what we are seeing is a symptom of larger societal issues that demand the attention of every corner of our community.

We must all recognize that our children are among the most vulnerable members of society. It is heartbreaking when a child becomes the victim of a violent crime. It is even more inconceivable when a child becomes the offender, especially when committing acts of violence.

To the parents, mentors, friends, and every caring adult in this city: I need you. Our children need you. We cannot afford passive involvement. Know where your children are. Know who they are with. Know what they are doing. Be present. Be the force that steers them toward success. Ignorance of their behavior should never be the reason a young life becomes entangled in the criminal justice system.

As important as it is to protect our children from becoming victims, accountability is equally non-negotiable. We will find and charge those responsible. We will bring them to justice. There will be consequences, because accountability is not just a law enforcement principle; it is a community value.

And to everyone: if you see a gathering escalating, if you sense an argument turning dangerous, say something. Step in. Speak up. Too often we wait until tragedy strikes, but the time to act is now, not after a crime is committed. Be the voice of reason when someone else is losing theirs.”

These incidents remain under active investigation. Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the Charleston Police Department by calling 843-720-2422 and requesting the on-duty Central Detective, or by submitting an anonymous tip online at www.charleston-sc.gov/tips.

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When arrests are made, Chief Walker will provide an update and release additional details regarding these investigations.