UPDATE: Three Confirmed Dead in Anderson Shooting — One Victim Identified as Calvin Chester Jr.
ANDERSON, S.C. — The city of Anderson is in mourning after a devastating shooting late Saturday night left three people dead and several others injured in what officials are calling one of the most tragic acts of violence the community has seen in recent years.
The shooting took place around 11:30 p.m. near the intersection of West Franklin Street and Murray Avenue, a neighborhood that residents say is usually quiet but has seen an uptick in disturbances in recent months. According to authorities, multiple gunshots rang out during what appeared to be a gathering or street party in the area, prompting a heavy police and emergency response.
On Sunday, Anderson County Coroner Greg Shore confirmed that three individuals were killed in the incident, and one of the victims has been identified as Calvin Chester Jr., a 25-year-old Anderson native known for his vibrant personality, close ties to the community, and dedication to his family.
CHAOS UNFOLDS IN A TIGHT-KNIT COMMUNITY
Witnesses described a terrifying scene as gunfire erupted, sending dozens of people scrambling for safety.
“It was like fireworks at first — then people started screaming,” said Jamal Thornton, a local resident who lives nearby. “People were running everywhere. I saw two people on the ground and then heard sirens coming from every direction.”
First responders arrived to find multiple victims suffering from gunshot wounds. Despite life-saving efforts, three were pronounced dead at the scene. Several others were rushed to AnMed Health Medical Center, where they remain in treatment. Officials have not disclosed the exact number of injured, but sources close to the investigation suggest at least two others were wounded.
VICTIM REMEMBERED: CALVIN CHESTER JR.
Among the deceased, Calvin Chester Jr. has become the face of the tragedy. Described by friends and family as a “gentle soul” and “always smiling,” Chester was a graduate of T.L. Hanna High School and worked locally as a technician. He was also involved in mentoring youth through a local community program aimed at reducing gun violence.
“He was trying to be the change,” said Tameka Johnson, a family friend. “He always said he wanted to show younger kids that you can live differently, that you don’t have to be a statistic. And now this—he’s gone.”
Calvin is survived by his parents, two sisters, and a young son.
POLICE INVESTIGATION UNDERWAY
The Anderson Police Department, working alongside the Anderson County Sheriff’s Office and State Law Enforcement Division (SLED), has launched an intensive investigation into the shooting. While no suspects have been named publicly, authorities confirmed they are reviewing surveillance footage, collecting shell casings, and interviewing witnesses.
“We believe this was not a random act,” said Anderson Police Chief Jim Stewart at a Sunday afternoon press briefing. “This was a targeted shooting, and we are pursuing leads aggressively. We are urging anyone with information, photos, or video footage from the area to come forward.”
Chief Stewart emphasized that community cooperation is crucial at this stage of the investigation. Anonymous tips can be submitted through Crime Stoppers at 1-888-CRIME-SC.
COMMUNITY GRIEF AND ANGER
The shooting has sent shockwaves through Anderson — a city that has struggled with rising gun violence, like many mid-sized communities across the country. In response to the tragedy, city leaders, religious organizations, and advocacy groups are calling for unity and immediate action to curb the bloodshed.
“This isn’t just about one night,” said Reverend Leon Blackwell of Unity Baptist Church. “This is about years of hurt, of broken systems, and of young people losing their lives way too soon. Calvin Chester Jr. should be alive today. All three victims should be alive.”
A candlelight vigil is being organized for Monday evening at 7:00 p.m. at the corner of West Franklin and Murray Avenue, where community members will gather to remember the victims and demand change.
CALLS FOR ACCOUNTABILITY AND SOLUTIONS
The tragedy has reignited conversations about gun violence, community investment, and public safety in Anderson. Local officials have pledged to increase patrols in high-risk neighborhoods and are considering curfews or limits on large gatherings in the wake of the shooting.
Mayor Terence Roberts issued a statement Sunday afternoon:
“We are heartbroken by the senseless violence that occurred in our city last night. Our thoughts are with the victims and their families. We must come together — not only to grieve but to take meaningful steps that prevent these tragedies from repeating.”
Several community organizations, including Mothers Against Gun Violence – Anderson Chapter, are urging state legislators to support youth outreach programs, mental health services, and conflict resolution training to address the root causes of local violence.
WHERE THE INVESTIGATION STANDS
As of now, the identities of the other two victims have not been publicly released pending family notification. Police have not confirmed how many shooters may have been involved or what led to the violence, but they emphasized that the investigation is active and rapidly developing.
The Anderson Police Department is encouraging anyone with information related to the shooting to contact the department directly or report anonymously through Crime Stoppers.
A COMMUNITY IN MOURNING
As Anderson struggles to make sense of another life-shattering act of violence, the legacy of Calvin Chester Jr. and the other victims serves as a painful reminder of the urgent need for change.
“We won’t let their names be forgotten,” said Shawnda Riley, a local youth counselor. “We owe them that. We owe them more than that.”
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