UPDATE: Multiple Arrests Following Shooting Incident at Chester Heights Two Apartments
Chester, SC – June 28, 2025 — A wave of arrests has followed a violent shooting that erupted at Chester Heights Two Apartments late Sunday night, June 22. What began as a chaotic and frightening exchange of gunfire in a residential parking lot has now turned into a major law enforcement investigation with seven individuals—three adults and four juveniles—arrested in connection with the case.
The incident occurred around 11:30 p.m. at 2706 Dawson Drive, Chester Heights Apartments. According to officials, multiple individuals began firing at one another in the parking area of the apartment complex, prompting a swift response from both the Chester Police Department and the Chester County Sheriff’s Office.
Eighteen-year-old Breasia Truesdale, a bystander caught in the crossfire, sustained a gunshot wound to her lower back. She was quickly transported by a friend to MUSC Health in Chester before being transferred to Prisma Health in Columbia for further treatment. Authorities have confirmed that she remains in stable condition and is expected to recover.
Following the incident, the Chester Police Department, working closely with the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED), launched an intensive investigation that has since yielded significant breakthroughs. In the hours immediately after the shooting, five individuals were taken into custody. Continued investigative efforts and execution of multiple search warrants led to the arrest of two additional suspects on the evening of June 26.
During the course of the investigation, law enforcement recovered five firearms, including both handguns and rifles, believed to have been used during the violent altercation. Officials confirmed that these weapons were seized through coordinated search operations tied to the suspects.
Arrests Made
Adult Suspects (Ages 19):
- Vijay Phillips, M/B, of Chester, SC – Breach of Peace, High and Aggravated Nature
- Wil’Mariee Patterson, M/B, of Chester, SC – Breach of Peace, High and Aggravated Nature
- Ja’Taves Cherry, M/B, of Columbia, SC – Attempted Murder and Possession of a Weapon During a Violent Crime
Juvenile Suspects:
- M/B Juvenile (16) – Breach of Peace, High and Aggravated Nature
- M/B Juvenile (16) – Breach of Peace, High and Aggravated Nature
- M/B Juvenile (15) – Breach of Peace, High and Aggravated Nature
- W/M Juvenile (15) – Breach of Peace, High and Aggravated Nature
Due to their age, the identities of the juvenile suspects have not been released publicly.
Community and Law Enforcement Response
In a public statement, Chester Police expressed their appreciation for the community’s cooperation and reaffirmed their dedication to ensuring public safety. “We are incredibly grateful for the tireless work of our officers and the valuable support from SLED,” said a department spokesperson. “This investigation remains active, and we encourage anyone with further information to come forward.”
The police department emphasized that while multiple arrests have been made, the case is still ongoing. Authorities are continuing to pursue leads and analyze evidence to determine whether additional individuals were involved or present during the shooting.
Call for Information
Anyone with information related to the incident is urged to contact the Chester Police Department at (803) 385-5433. Community tips can play a crucial role in helping investigators piece together the full scope of the event and prevent further violence.
Conclusion
This tragic event marks another unsettling reminder of the dangers of escalating violence in residential communities. As Breasia Truesdale continues to recover, her family, friends, and neighbors are left grappling with the emotional toll of this senseless act. Meanwhile, the community of Chester looks to law enforcement for continued vigilance, hoping for justice, healing, and a path forward free of gun violence.