In the early morning hours of September 15, 2024, gunfire erupted in the 900 block of Center Street in West Columbia, South Carolina, killing two men and wounding another. One of the fatalities was 29-year-old Alvin Davonte McDaniel Jr., of Winnsboro. The shooting happened about 3:30 a.m.

Responding officers found a chaotic scene. A 17-year-old, Kashaan Damon Sims of Columbia, was pronounced dead at the scene from multiple gunshot wounds to his upper body. McDaniel Jr. suffered several gunshot wounds to his lower body, was taken to a local hospital, and later died of his injuries. A third person was injured, transported to an area hospital, treated, and released.

The West Columbia Police Department, the Lexington County Coroner’s Office, and the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division CSI unit are investigating. Authorities have released few specifics, have not publicly identified suspects or a motive, and no arrests have been announced.

If anyone has information about this shooting or knew Alvin Davonte McDaniel Jr., please contact West Columbia Police with tips.