News Summary
A tragic shooting at a Juneteenth celebration in Anderson County resulted in the death of 35-year-old Laporshia Janae Gray Cobb and injuries to nine others. The incident occurred outside a Veterans of Foreign Wars post during a fight, leading to chaos among attendees. Law enforcement is investigating the circumstances of the shooting and has identified several persons of interest. The community is mourning the loss and seeking answers as authorities urge witnesses to come forward. This incident highlights the dangers of violence at public gatherings.
Anderson County, South Carolina – One person was killed and nine others suffered injuries during a shooting at a Juneteenth celebration near a Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) post on the night of June 21. The incident, which erupted amidst a crowd of hundreds, began shortly before 10 p.m. following a fight near the VFW hall located on Scarborough Road, just outside of Greenville.
The deceased has been identified as 35-year-old Laporshia Janae Gray Cobb. She succumbed to a gunshot wound to the abdomen at the scene. Another victim was transported via helicopter to Greenville Memorial Hospital, while at least eight additional individuals were taken to local hospitals in Anderson and Greenville for treatment of gunshot wounds.
More than 100 emergency personnel, including law enforcement, EMS, and firefighters, rapidly responded to the chaotic scene. The aftermath saw many attendees fleeing, leaving behind personal belongings such as shoes and debris scattered across the roadway.
The Anderson County Sheriff’s Office has clarified that, although the shooting took place outside the VFW post, the post was not associated with the Juneteenth event. This annual celebration, which commemorates the federal holiday marking the end of slavery in the United States, was reported to have been peaceful during daylight hours, with the situation escalating only following an argument in the parking lot.
The Anderson County Coroner’s Office has officially ruled Cobb’s death a homicide. As part of their investigation, authorities are exploring the motive behind the disturbance and have already identified several persons of interest. However, no suspect information has been publicly released at this time.
Following the shooting, investigators began canvassing the area for evidence, including shell casings, and are conducting interviews with potential witnesses. Roads surrounding the venue were lined with parked vehicles, and in the confusion, some cars had to be towed from the scene.
The sheriff’s office is actively encouraging anyone with information regarding the shooting to reach out to CrimeStoppers. As the community mourns the loss of a life during what was meant to be a celebratory occasion, the search for clarity and justice continues.
This tragic event serves as a stark reminder of the threats posed by violence, even in moments meant for unity and remembrance. As Anderson County grapples with the fallout of this incident, residents are left hoping for healing and closure.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Shooting at Juneteenth Celebration in Anderson County
Woman Killed and Nine Injured in Anderson Shooting
Police still searching for suspect after telling residents to seek shelter near Furman University
Additional Resources
- Greenville Online
- Wikipedia: Juneteenth
- USA Today
- Google Search: Juneteenth shooting
- WSPA
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Juneteenth
- People
- Google News: Anderson County shooting
