Crime & Courts

Shooting leaves one dead in West Columbia. Lexington deputies search for suspect

Detectives with the Lexington County Sheriff’s Department are investigating a deadly shooting in West Columbia that left one person dead Friday, March 20, 2026.
Detectives with the Lexington County Sheriff’s Department are investigating a deadly shooting in West Columbia that left one person dead Friday, March 20, 2026. Getty Images

One person is dead following a shooting in West Columbia Friday, according to the Lexington County Sheriff’s Department.

Detectives from the department are working leads into the shooting and have been canvassing the area of Hammond Avenue in West Columbia since early Friday morning, according to department spokesperson, Capt. Adam Myrick.

Deputies were initially notified that a victim, who was bleeding, began knocking on doors in the neighborhood, asking for help, Myrick said.

The victim was transported to an area hospital where they later died, he said.

The deceased has not yet been identified by the Lexington County Coroner’s Office.

Investigators believe this was an isolated incident between two people who knew each other or had some previous connection, Myrick said.

Anyone with information are encouraged to submit tips to the Midlands CrimeStoppers via the app or by dialing 888-274-6372. Tips may be anonymous, and a cash reward may be available, Myrick said.

Javon L. Harris
The State
Javon L. Harris is a crime and courts reporter for The State. He is a graduate of the University of Florida and the Thurgood Marshall School of Law at Texas Southern University. Before coming to South Carolina, Javon covered breaking news, local government and social justice for The Gainesville Sun in Florida. Support my work with a digital subscription
Get one year of unlimited digital access for $159.99
#ReadLocal

Only 44¢ per day

SUBSCRIBE NOW