FBI and ATF Investigate Surge in Shootings in Lancaster, SC

News Summary

Lancaster, South Carolina, is gripped by fear following a series of violent, retaliatory drive-by shootings after the tragic murder of 18-year-old Jelani Jackson. Law enforcement, including the FBI and ATF, is actively investigating the incidents, which led to multiple injuries and numerous properties being targeted. Authorities are offering a $20,000 reward for information leading to arrests, urging community members to come forward. As local officials work to restore safety, residents are united against the escalating violence that is disrupting their community.

FBI and ATF Take Action in Lancaster, SC, Amid Violent Retaliatory Shootings

In the quiet community of Lancaster, South Carolina, residents are wrestling with a wave of fear and uncertainty following a series of drive-by shootings that have rocked the town. These violent incidents have been linked to the tragic murder of 18-year-old Jelani Jackson, who was shot dead on September 4, 2024. Since that fateful day, tensions have flared, leading to a shocking six drive-by shootings across the town.

What Happened?

Jackson’s murder has set off a chain reaction of violence that the local law enforcement is struggling to contain. Reports indicate that multiple homes were targeted, with bullets flying through the air and innocent bystanders caught in the crossfire. Investigators say that this surge of shootings appears to be retaliatory in nature, leaving many in the community fearing for their safety.

The Lancaster County Sheriff’s Office, along with city police, the FBI, and the ATF, are all hands on deck, working tirelessly to unravel this disturbing situation. Local authorities have emphasized that credible evidence suggests these shootings are connected, prompting a unified response from various law enforcement agencies.

A Reward for Information

To help put an end to this violence, the FBI and ATF have announced a substantial $20,000 reward. This reward is aimed at anyone who can provide information that leads to arrests and convictions related to the drive-by shootings and, of course, the untimely death of Jackson. They are hoping that community members might step forward with valuable tips.

The Timeline of Terror

The web of violence began with Jackson’s tragic shooting on Clinton Avenue. The very next day, shots rang out again near Pardue Street and East Arch Street, with further shootings taking place on City Avenue. The chaos continued on September 7, where another incident occurred on Shelton Street, injuring one person and damaging several homes.

Subsequent shootings were reported on Cane Mill Road and Oxford Circle, fortunately resulting in no injuries, but the tension in the community continued to rise. The violence didn’t slow down as a shooting occurred on Foster Heights Drive on September 11, involving a suspect vehicle thought to be a Dodge Charger.

Arrests Made, But More to Do

On September 11, Kenyan Lamar Blair, a 19-year-old, was arrested and charged in Jackson’s murder. He had been held on unrelated charges since September 5. However, the investigation is far from over. Authorities are now actively searching for Lamonta Dishanior Roberts, a 31-year-old who is wanted for murder as well as possession of a weapon during a violent crime.

Voices Against Violence

Local officials, including Sheriff Barry Faile, have made it clear that they will not tolerate this level of indiscriminate violence that disrupts the peace in the community. Law enforcement is working vigorously to restore a sense of safety, urging anyone with any information to step forward. Police Chief Don Roper is especially optimistic that the reward will motivate people to assist in solving these pressing cases.

How to Help

Communication is key during these unsettling times. Anyone with tips can reach out to the ATF anonymously via phone or email, contributing towards making Lancaster a safer place for its residents. The investigation continues as law enforcement is dedicated to apprehending those responsible for the chaos.

As this situation unfolds, the Lancaster community stands together, hoping for respite from the violence that has disrupted their lives.

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

• WBTV: ATF and FBI Offering $20K Reward
• Wikipedia: Lancaster, South Carolina
• QC News: 16 Charged After Murder Triggers Gang-Related Shootings
• Google Search: Lancaster County shootings
• Herald: Local Crime News
• Google Scholar: Lancaster County gang shootings
• Local 21 News: Officer Involved Shooting Justified
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Lancaster shootings
• Lancaster Online: 28 Police-Involved Shootings
• Google News: Lancaster County FBI shootings

Author: HERE Lexington