DILLON, South Carolina — Dillon County is reeling after two young men were killed in linked shootings on Monday evening. The first call came just before 5 p.m. on South 9th Avenue, where 22‑year‑old Tyrese Smith was found with a gunshot wound. Neighbors heard the shots and within minutes police and EMS were at the scene. Smith was rushed to a local hospital, but he later died from his injuries.
Not long after, around 5:20 p.m., officers were dispatched to South 1st Avenue. This time multiple people had been shot. Among those wounded was 18‑year‑old Ja’Quese Alford. Like Smith, Alford was taken to the hospital and later died. Authorities confirmed both shootings are connected.
Friends and family describe both young men as full of life and promise. Smith had recently turned 22 and was known in the community for his warm, friendly presence. Alford, only 18, was just beginning his adult life, with close relationships in school and with family. Their deaths have left deep sorrow across Dillon.
Dillon County Coroner Donnie Grimsley said autopsies are pending as investigators try to piece together what led to such violence in quick succession. Police Chief Monroe Herring says investigators have developed persons of interest and are actively pursuing leads, but few details about motives have been released.
Community members gathered near the scenes on Tuesday, offering condolences and trying to make sense of what happened. Some described the shootings as senseless, while others clung to memories of happier times with Tyrese and Ja’Quese.
Family members of both victims have urged anyone with information to come forward. Police want to hear from anyone who may have seen something unusual in either location around the time of the shootings. Dillon law enforcement says even small details could help.
As Dillon mourns, friends and loved ones are planning memorials and gatherings to remember Tyrese and Ja’Quese. Their loss has sparked conversations about violence and the importance of community support in healing after tragedy
