Three children and two men killed in late night shooting in the Midlands, police say
Three children were among five people killed in a late night shooting in the Midlands, the Sumter Police Department said Wednesday.
The Sumter County Coroner’s Office has not publicly identified the victims or released the ages of the children.
Sumter County School District Superintendent Dr. William Wright confirmed the kids were students in district schools.
“Sumter School District is grieving the loss of three students. Two siblings attended Millwood Elementary School, and another sibling attended Alice Drive Middle School,” Wright said in a statement. “Our sincere condolences are extended to the family.”
The shooting happened at about 11:30 p.m. Tuesday on Whitetail Circle, police said in a news release. There was no word on how the bodies were discovered. That’s near Loring Mill Road, about a mile from Sumter Speedway.
Officers believe the shooting was related to a domestic violence incident, according to the release. Further information about a motive for the gunfire was not available.
In addition to the children, two men were found shot and killed, according to the release. One of the men is believed to be the shooter, police said.
Information about the shooter’s relationship with the victims was not available.
“There is no apparent threat to the public,” police said.
An investigation is ongoing, and more information is expected to be made public.
Wright said school counselors and the district’s Crisis Response Team are at the Sumter County schools to assist students and staff.
“Our hearts are filled with sadness, and we will continue to lend support to one another during this time,” Wright said.
This is a developing story, check back for updates.
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This story was originally published March 22, 2023 at 9:12 AM.
