KINGSTREE HOMICIDE: Community Mourns the Loss of Kenneth Nesmith in Deadly Shooting
KINGSTREE, SC – A quiet community in Williamsburg County has been rocked by tragedy following a deadly shooting that claimed the life of a 39-year-old local resident. The Williamsburg County Coroner, Ivori L. Henryhand, has confirmed that the victim of the fatal incident is Kenneth Nesmith, of Kingstree, South Carolina.
The shooting occurred on Wednesday, July 9, 2025, on Christopher Road, a typically peaceful area in Kingstree. Law enforcement and emergency responders were dispatched to the scene following reports of gunfire, where they found Nesmith suffering from critical injuries. Despite lifesaving efforts, he was pronounced dead at the scene.
The case is currently being investigated as a homicide, and authorities are working diligently to piece together the events that led to the shooting. At this time, no arrests have been announced, and police have not disclosed any information regarding a possible suspect or motive.
An autopsy has been scheduled for Wednesday, July 16, 2025, at the Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC) in Charleston, where forensic experts will conduct a full examination to determine the official cause and manner of death. Investigators hope the autopsy will provide key insights to assist in moving the case forward.
Community in Shock
The loss of Kenneth Nesmith has left a noticeable void in the Kingstree community, where he was known as a dedicated family man and a familiar face to many. Friends and neighbors have expressed shock and grief over the violence that ended his life.
“He didn’t deserve this,” said one neighbor, holding back tears. “Kenneth was a good guy. He kept to himself, worked hard, and loved his kids. This kind of violence—it’s senseless.”
Community leaders and clergy members are also speaking out in the wake of the homicide, urging anyone with information about the incident to come forward. A prayer vigil is reportedly being organized to honor Kenneth’s life and provide support to his grieving family.
A Call for Justice
The Williamsburg County Sheriff’s Office has not released many details about the investigation, citing the sensitive nature of the case and the ongoing effort to gather accurate information. However, they have emphasized that anyone with knowledge of the incident is encouraged to contact investigators.
“This community deserves answers, and Kenneth’s family deserves justice,” one sheriff’s department spokesperson said. “We are following all leads and doing everything in our power to hold those responsible accountable.”
Authorities are urging residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity or potential leads, no matter how small. Anonymous tips can also be submitted through local crime reporting hotlines.
Remembering Kenneth Nesmith
While the investigation continues, the focus for many is on remembering who Kenneth was—not just how he died. Described as a quiet soul with a generous heart, Kenneth was a father, a son, a brother, and a friend. Those who knew him are mourning a life cut short far too soon.
Social media tributes and messages of condolence have been pouring in since the news broke, with many urging peace and unity in a time of growing concern over local violence.
“Please keep the Nesmith family in your thoughts and prayers,” the coroner’s office wrote in a public statement. “They are experiencing an unimaginable loss.”
Looking Ahead
As Williamsburg County awaits answers, the memory of Kenneth Nesmith will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him. Authorities have vowed to leave no stone unturned in their pursuit of justice. In the meantime, the Kingstree community stands united in grief, and in the hope that accountability and peace will follow in the wake of this senseless tragedy.
Anyone with information is urged to contact the Williamsburg County Sheriff’s Office or Crime Stoppers of the Lowcountry.