Crime
Richland County Deputies Investigate Fatal Shooting in Northeast Columbia, Victim Identified
RICHLAND COUNTY, S.C. — Authorities are investigating a shooting that left one person dead and another critically injured in northeast Columbia last week, according to the Richland County Sheriff’s Department.
Deputies responded to reports of gunfire in the 100 block of Westbridge Road, near Hardscrabble Road and Rabon Road, at approximately 1:30 a.m. on March 13, 2025.
Upon arrival, they discovered a male victim, later identified as Jay Anderson, lying in the middle of the roadway dressed in all black.
He had sustained a gunshot wound and was pronounced deceased at the scene.
A second victim was found with gunshot injuries and was transported to a local hospital, where they remain in critical condition.
The Richland County Sheriff’s Department is actively investigating the circumstances surrounding the shooting.
Authorities urge anyone with information to come forward by contacting the Richland County Sheriff’s Department at (803) 576-3000 or by submitting an anonymous tip through CrimeStoppers at 888-CRIME-SC (888-274-6372).
Crime
19-year-old Jayden Blanchard Killed After Shooting on Concord Avenue in Amory, Suspect in Custody
AMORY, Miss. – The Amory Police Department is investigating a fatal shooting that occurred on the night of March 17, 2025, leaving one person dead and another in custody.
At approximately 10:37 p.m., Amory Police Department Communications personnel received multiple reports of gunfire in the 1300 block of Concord Avenue.
Officers arrived at the scene and discovered an unresponsive male in the front yard of a residence, suffering from multiple gunshot wounds.
Officers immediately administered first aid until emergency medical personnel arrived.
The victim was identified as 19-year-old Jayden Zyshawn Blanchard.
He was transported to North Mississippi Medical Center – Gilmore, where he succumbed to his injuries a short time later.
As officers and detectives processed the crime scene, a patrol officer located a male matching the description of a suspect involved in the shooting.
The individual was taken into custody without incident, and a firearm believed to have been used in the shooting was recovered nearby.
The suspect was identified as Denzarious Devon Wren.
Upon his arrest, it was discovered that Wren had also sustained a non-life-threatening gunshot wound to a lower extremity.
Authorities have confirmed that the incident was a targeted and isolated event involving two individuals known to each other.
The investigation remains active, and police are committed to ensuring the safety of the community.
The Amory Police Department extends its condolences to the family of Mr. Blanchard.
Anyone with additional information regarding this case is urged to contact the Amory Police Department.