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A Blackville shooting left an 18-year-old dead over the weekend.
On Saturday, June 21, at approximately 2:10 a.m., officers with the Blackville Police Department responded to a report of a shooting on Davis Street. However, upon arrival, officers found no evidence of a shooting at that location.
Shortly after, police received another 911 call reporting gunfire near Oak Street. When officers arrived, they discovered the body of 18-year-old Rakel Howard lying on the ground with a fatal gunshot wound, according to the police.
"Our department is dedicated to uncovering the circumstances surrounding this incident and ensuring that those responsible are held accountable," said Blackville Police Chief Shawn Howze Jr. "We extend our deepest condolences to the family and friends of Rakel Howard during this difficult time."
Barnwell County Coroner Denise Gibson said an autopsy was scheduled for Tuesday, June 24, in Newberry. The results could take up to two days to be returned.
The Blackville Police Department is working closely with the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) and coroner’s office on the investigation. However, law enforcement has not released further information as of press time, despite requests from The People-Sentinel for more information, including copies of incident reports.
Authorities encourage anyone who may have seen or heard anything to come forward to help bring justice for Rakel Howard and closure for his family.
Anyone with information related to the case is urged to contact the Blackville Police Department at (839) 259-8979 or email policechief@townofblackville.com.
