Direko Thomas was 18 when he was shot and killed on Miranda Road in West Columbia, South Carolina, on the afternoon of Saturday, July 24, 2021. He was struck by multiple bullets in his upper body and the Lexington County Coroner’s Office pronounced him dead at the scene.

The Lexington County Sheriff’s Department investigated the shooting. Witnesses reported seeing a black Nissan Maxima, which was later located and processed for evidence. A man later presented himself at the sheriff’s department claiming to be the shooter and was interviewed by deputies, but no immediate arrest followed. The motive has not been publicly disclosed.

Direko’s mother, Simeko Thomas, described him as caring and has publicly pleaded for justice, noting he had recent legal troubles that she said did not reflect his true character. The investigation remains open; no arrests or charges have been announced.

Did anyone in the area on July 24, 2021, see the black Nissan Maxima or have information about Direko’s movements that afternoon?