Tragedy Strikes: Shawnteza La Shay Sherman Charged in Fatal Shooting Involving Young Twins

(April 26, 2025) — The community is reeling after devastating new developments in a violent shooting that has left one child dead, another fighting for their life, and an 18-year-old recovering from serious injuries. Investigators have officially charged 31-year-old Shawnteza La Shay Sherman with Murder, two counts of Attempted Murder, and Criminal Conspiracy in connection to the tragic incident.

Authorities have also confirmed that a juvenile has been charged with a weapons-related offense after being found in possession of a firearm while under the legal age of 18. The juvenile is currently being held at the Department of Juvenile Justice in Columbia, pending further legal proceedings.

A Community in Mourning

The news has sent shockwaves through the community, especially as it was revealed that two of the victims are 5-year-old twins. Tragically, officials confirmed that one of the twins succumbed to their injuries. The surviving twin remains in critical condition, fighting for their life in a nearby hospital.

The 18-year-old victim involved in the shooting is reported to be in stable condition and is expected to survive, though authorities noted he faces a long road to recovery, both physically and emotionally.

An Ongoing, Relentless Investigation

According to statements from the sheriff’s office, the investigation remains highly active and dynamic. Teams of detectives are working around the clock to identify and apprehend all individuals involved in what Sheriff Hobart Lewis has described as a “senseless and unforgivable crime.”

“As Sheriff Lewis promised, we will not rest until everyone responsible for this violence is behind bars,” the department said in a statement.

Law enforcement officials emphasized that more arrests are likely as the investigation progresses. They have asked the public for patience and assistance, encouraging anyone with information about the shooting or those involved to come forward.

A Grieving Family, A Grieving Community

For the family of the young victims, the heartbreak is unimaginable. A life so young, full of potential and innocence, was taken far too soon. Meanwhile, the surviving twin’s fight for life adds another layer of anguish for the family and community members rallying around them.

Neighbors, friends, and local leaders have organized vigils and prayer gatherings, lighting candles and laying stuffed animals at makeshift memorials. Many are struggling to make sense of the violence that has shattered what should have been a peaceful childhood.

Local pastors and counselors are offering services to help the affected families and the wider community cope with the overwhelming grief.

A Call for Justice and Healing

This tragedy serves as yet another painful reminder of the devastating consequences of gun violence, particularly when it claims the lives of society’s most vulnerable.

Sheriff Lewis assured the public that justice will be pursued relentlessly, but he also called for a broader conversation about safety, youth violence, and community support structures.

“This cannot become our normal,” he said. “We owe it to these children, to their family, and to every citizen to make sure that we act — not just with arrests and trials, but with real, lasting change.”

Moving Forward

As the legal process unfolds, Shawnteza La Shay Sherman faces serious charges that could result in life imprisonment or more, depending on the eventual court rulings. The juvenile, though facing a different set of legal standards due to his age, will also be held accountable under the law.

In the meantime, the sheriff’s department continues its active investigation and encourages anyone with relevant information to come forward, either by contacting the department directly or submitting anonymous tips.

The memory of the lost child — a life that barely had a chance to begin — will serve as a sobering reminder of what is at stake. And for the surviving victims, the road to healing will be long, but they will not walk it alone.

The community stands with them — determined, grieving, and hopeful that justice and peace will prevail.