News Summary
A 17-year-old boy has been arrested and charged with the murder of a 40-year-old man after a shooting incident in Clinton, South Carolina. The victim, Brandon Xavier Gadsden, died from injuries inflicted during the early morning shooting. Law enforcement responded to the scene quickly, and the suspect, Kavonte Cunningham, was taken into custody shortly after the incident. The investigation is ongoing as authorities work to gather more details surrounding the shooting and emphasize community safety.
Clinton, S.C. – Teen Arrested for Murder Following Shooting Incident
A 17-year-old has been arrested and charged with the murder of a 40-year-old man in a shooting incident that occurred early in the morning on June 4, 2025, in Clinton, South Carolina. The victim, identified as Brandon Xavier Gadsden from Newberry, succumbed to injuries inflicted during the shooting, which took place in a parking area off Millers Fork Trail.
Law enforcement responded to reports of a gunshot victim around 6:30 a.m. upon receiving notifications of the incident. Upon arriving at the scene, deputies found Gadsden gravely injured. He was pronounced dead shortly thereafter as authorities began their investigation into the circumstances surrounding the shooting.
Investigators believe Gadsden was initially shot while in the parking area before emergency responders arrived. The case led law enforcement to identify and apprehend Kavonte Cunningham, the suspect in the shooting, approximately 12 hours later. Cunningham, a resident of Cross Hill, was arrested around 7 p.m. on the same day.
Cunningham has been formally charged with murder and possession of a weapon during a violent crime. Given his age, authorities have opted to charge him as an adult, underscoring the serious nature of the crime. During a subsequent court hearing, he was denied bond.
Authorities have not disclosed many specifics regarding the circumstances of the shooting, but they are acting swiftly to piece together the sequence of events that led to Gadsden’s death. The investigation remains ongoing as detectives work to gather further evidence and account for all aspects related to the case.
Expressing condolences for Gadsden’s family, Sheriff Don Reynolds acknowledged the immediate response by investigators and deputies that facilitated the quick arrest of Cunningham. Law enforcement continues to emphasize the importance of community safety and is committed to ensuring accountability in incidents of violence.
This tragic incident has drawn attention to ongoing concerns over gun violence and the associated risks within communities. As investigators work diligently on this case, further updates are anticipated and will be shared as new information becomes available.
Residents are urged to stay vigilant and report any information related to this incident to assist in the comprehensive investigation being conducted by local law enforcement.
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Additional Resources
- Fox Carolina: Deputies Investigate Death in Clinton
- Wikipedia: Gun Violence in the United States
- WYFF: Deadly Shooting in Laurens County
- Google Search: Clinton South Carolina shooting
- WSPA: Teen Arrested in Fatal Shooting
- Google Scholar: Gun Violence South Carolina
- Fox Carolina: Teen Injured in Graduation Party Shooting
- Encyclopedia Britannica: School Shooting
- WBTV: Teenager Shot at Graduation Party
- Google News: Clinton shooting
Author: STAFF HERE CLINTON
CLINTON STAFF WRITER The CLINTON STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREClinton.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Clinton, Laurens County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Festival of Discovery, Clinton Community Day, and performances at the Whitten Center Amphitheater. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Clinton Area Chamber of Commerce and the Laurens County Historical Society, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and education that power the local economy such as Milliken & Company and Presbyterian College. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
