Crime
Jada S. Watts, 30, Killed in Richland County Shooting; 11-Year-Old Girl Injured
A devastating shooting in Richland County, South Carolina, claimed the life of 30-year-old Jada S. Watts early Saturday morning, leaving a family grieving and an 11-year-old girl hospitalized with gunshot injuries. Authorities are continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the violence, which has deeply affected those connected to the victims.
According to the Richland County Sheriff’s Department, deputies were initially dispatched at approximately 5 a.m. Saturday after reports of shooting victims at a location in the 200 block of Cricket Ridge in Lexington County. As investigators began examining the incident, they determined that the shooting had actually occurred in the 100 block of Haverford Drive in Richland County. The victims had reportedly been transported from that location to Cricket Ridge.
Richland County Coroner Naida Rutherford identified the deceased woman as Jada May, described in the provided information as 30-year-old Jada Watts of Columbia, South Carolina.
Investigators reported that Jada was found unresponsive inside a vehicle parked in front of a residence. She had sustained at least one gunshot wound to her upper body. Emergency personnel attempted to respond, but she was pronounced dead at the scene.
Her death has left loved ones facing the sudden loss of a woman whose life ended in a violent incident that authorities are still working to understand.
An 11-year-old girl was also found with gunshot injuries inside the residence. According to the information released by authorities, she had sustained at least one gunshot wound to her upper body and was transported to a hospital for treatment.
Officials have not publicly released an update on the child’s current medical condition. Her family and loved ones are now facing an incredibly difficult period as she receives care and works toward recovery.
The shooting has raised serious concerns because a child was among those injured. An 11-year-old should be able to focus on school, family, friendships, and the experiences of growing up—not face the consequences of gun violence.
As of the latest information provided, investigators have not identified a suspect or announced any arrests. Authorities have also not disclosed what may have led to the shooting or whether the victims knew the person responsible.
The Richland County Sheriff’s Department continues to investigate the case in coordination with the coroner’s office.
Coroner Naida Rutherford stated: “We will continue working with the Richland County Sheriff’s Department to fully investigate this homicide.”
Anyone with information that could assist investigators is encouraged to contact the Richland County Sheriff’s Department at 803-576-3000. Tips may also be submitted anonymously to CrimeStoppers at 1-888-CRIME-SC.
At just 30 years old, Jada S. Watts had a life that mattered to the people who knew and loved her. Her sudden death has left family members and friends coping with grief while trying to make sense of the circumstances surrounding the shooting.
The incident also serves as a painful reminder of the lasting impact gun violence can have on families and communities, particularly when children are caught in the middle.
As the investigation continues, thoughts remain with Jada’s family and loved ones, as well as the 11-year-old girl who was injured and everyone hoping for her recovery.
May Jada S. Watts rest in peace, and may her loved ones find strength and comfort in the days ahead. Wishing the young girl a safe recovery and continued care during this difficult time.
Crime
17-Year-Old Javohn Pitts Critically Injured in Accidental Shooting During FaceTime Call in Elsmere, Kentucky
A 17-year-old teenager, identified as Javohn Pitts, remains in critical condition after being shot in the head during an incident involving a handgun at a residence in Elsmere, Kentucky, on Saturday. Police say the shooting appears to have occurred while two juveniles were showing the firearm to others during a FaceTime call.
The incident prompted an emergency response in Northern Kentucky and left the teenager with potentially life-threatening injuries. He was transported by helicopter to a Cincinnati hospital, where he continues to receive medical treatment.
According to the Elsmere Police Department, officers were dispatched to a reported shooting in the 100 block of Garvey Avenue early Saturday afternoon.
When first responders arrived, they found Javohn Pitts suffering from a gunshot wound to the head. Due to the seriousness of his injuries, emergency personnel arranged for him to be airlifted to University of Cincinnati Medical Center.
Pitts remains hospitalized in critical condition, according to the information provided by police. Authorities have not released further details about his medical condition or prognosis.
During their investigation, police recovered a 9mm handgun from the residence.
Investigators believe the shooting happened while Pitts and another juvenile, who was acquainted with him, were displaying the handgun to other people during a FaceTime call. At some point during the incident, the firearm discharged, striking Pitts in the head.
Although the incident is being described as an apparent accidental shooting, authorities are continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the discharge and the events leading up to it.
A juvenile suspect was subsequently arrested in connection with the incident. Police reported that the suspect was acquainted with Pitts and has been charged with second-degree assault with a deadly weapon.
Because the individual is a juvenile, authorities have not publicly released the suspect’s identity.
The investigation remains ongoing, and additional information about the incident may be released as authorities continue reviewing the evidence.
Police are asking anyone who may have information about the shooting to contact the Kenton County Emergency Communication Center at 859-356-3191 or the Elsmere Police Department at 859-474-4785.
Information from witnesses or anyone familiar with the circumstances may help investigators establish a clearer account of what happened inside the Garvey Avenue residence.
At just 17 years old, Javohn Pitts is facing a serious medical battle following the shooting. His critical condition has left those who care about him hoping for positive news as he receives treatment.
The incident is also a sobering reminder of the dangers associated with handling firearms, particularly when a weapon is displayed or handled without proper safety precautions. A firearm can discharge unexpectedly, with consequences that may permanently change lives.
As the investigation continues, thoughts remain with Javohn Pitts, his family, and everyone hoping for his recovery. May he receive the care and support he needs during this difficult time.