48-Year-Old Darrick Jones Identified as Victim in Fatal Shooting on Smutherman Drive in Riverdale
DILLON COUNTY, S.C. – The Dillon County Coroner’s Office has identified the man who was fatally shot in a violent incident that occurred earlier this week in the Riverdale community. Coroner Donnie Grimsley confirmed that the victim was 48-year-old Darrick Jones, a resident of Dillon County.
The fatal shooting took place on Smutherman Drive, a quiet residential area in Riverdale, and has since prompted a joint investigation involving both local and state law enforcement agencies. Authorities responded to the scene following reports of gunfire, where they discovered Jones suffering from gunshot wounds. Despite emergency efforts, he was pronounced dead at the scene.
Coroner Grimsley stated that Mr. Jones’s body has been transported to Myrtle Beach for a full autopsy, which will be conducted by the Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC) Pathology Department. The autopsy aims to provide critical details regarding the exact cause and manner of death, which will further inform the ongoing investigation.
Dillon County Sheriff Jamie Hamilton addressed the public in a brief statement, confirming that the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) has been called in to assist local deputies in the case. SLED’s involvement reflects the serious nature of the investigation and the commitment of authorities to uncover the full circumstances surrounding Mr. Jones’s death.
“At this point, we are following all leads and working closely with SLED to piece together what happened on Smutherman Drive,” said Sheriff Hamilton. “This is an active and ongoing investigation, and we urge anyone who may have seen or heard something unusual in the area that evening to come forward.”
No arrests have been made as of yet, and investigators have not released details about any possible suspects or motives. Law enforcement officials are conducting door-to-door interviews, reviewing surveillance footage, and analyzing forensic evidence from the scene as part of their ongoing efforts.
The Riverdale community remains shaken by the tragic loss, as neighbors recall the area as generally peaceful and not known for violent crime. Several residents expressed shock that such a crime could occur so close to home.
Friends and family of Darrick Jones are now mourning the loss of a man they describe as quiet, kind, and devoted to his loved ones. As news of the shooting spreads, many have taken to social media to share condolences and prayers for the Jones family.
Sheriff Hamilton emphasized that community cooperation is crucial in helping to bring those responsible to justice. Anyone with information about the shooting is urged to contact the Dillon County Sheriff’s Office or submit anonymous tips to Crime Stoppers of the Pee Dee.
As the investigation continues, law enforcement has promised full transparency and a thorough pursuit of justice for the victim and his family.
Further details will be released as they become available. Funeral arrangements for Mr. Jones have not yet been announced.