Categories: Breaking NewsDisastersGovernment NewsNews

Blythewood Residents on Edge Following Shocking Shooting Incident

Empty street scene in Blythewood after shooting incident with police tape.

News Summary

Blythewood, South Carolina, is in shock after police arrested two teenagers connected to a late-night shooting that struck the community on April 6, 2025. The incident has left one person injured and caused significant property damage. Local businesses are assessing the impact while authorities call for community assistance in ongoing investigations. Safety concerns have prompted discussions about implementing curfews to protect the town’s youth amidst rising violence.

Blythewood Residents on Edge Following Shocking Shooting Incident

Residents of Blythewood, South Carolina, are reeling this week after the police announced the arrest of two teenagers in connection with a late-night shooting that has left the community shaken. The arrests, which included 18-year-olds Darrell Birch and Nahjere Suber, stemmed from a disturbing incident that occurred on April 6, 2025, just after 2 A.M. Authorities quickly labeled the event a surge of violence, describing it as having transformed Blythewood into a “warzone.”

Details of the Incident

On that fateful night, deputies rushed to the scene in the 200 block of Blythewood Road after receiving urgent reports of gunfire. Upon arrival, officials found one person suffering from a gunshot wound to the lower body. Emergency medical services transported the victim to a local hospital, where they are currently receiving treatment.

In the aftermath, several businesses along Blythewood Road, between Main Street and McNulty, suffered significant property damage as stray bullets wreaked havoc in the area. Eyewitness reports indicate that a small “pop-up party” was taking place outside a Waffle House at the time, where attendees were encouraged to bring alcohol and marijuana, sparking the chaotic scene.

Arrests and Ongoing Investigations

In the days following the shooting, Sheriff Leon Lott announced the arrests of Birch and Suber, who were taken into custody without incident at their homes. The teenagers face serious charges, namely Breach of Peace of a High and Aggravated Nature, as per the Richland County Sheriff’s Department’s Fugitive Task Force and Special Response Team.

Further investigations are underway, with Sheriff Lott confirming that the shooting incident involved additional suspects, although details are still emerging. Video footage released to the public on April 10 proved crucial in identifying Birch and Suber, leading to their timely arrests.

A Call for Community Involvement

The Sheriff’s Department is actively seeking assistance from the community and has made a heartfelt plea to parents. If they suspect their child was involved in this chaotic night, they are encouraged to reach out to the department by calling (803) 576-3000. Community cooperation is essential in ensuring the safety of Blythewood.

Reflections on Safety and Security

The shooting incident has raised serious concerns among Blythewood residents and local officials. In response to the surge in violence, particularly following this shooting and a related incident at Columbia Place Mall just days earlier, the Town of Blythewood is considering implementing a curfew to ensure public safety. Such measures would aim to protect the local youth and prevent similar occurrences in the future.

Adding to the gravity of the situation, it has come to light that one individual present at the party was out on bond for a murder charge at the time of the shooting — a disturbing detail that highlights broader issues concerning safety and accountability within the community.

What’s Next for Blythewood?

As the investigation continues, authorities are on the lookout for a black Maserati that sped away from the scene during the confusion of the shooting. The completion of these investigations and the identification of additional suspects will be crucial for restoring a sense of peace and security to the town.

Blythewood today faces unique challenges, and as both residents and law enforcement navigate this turbulent time, the hope is that by coming together as a community, they can support one another and work towards a brighter, safer future.