A hardworking family man, Darrious Jerome Davis, a 34-year-old Black or African American male, was fatally shot on the evening of October 16, 2020, in Columbia, South Carolina. Known affectionately as DJ, Davis was a dedicated father and husband who enjoyed cooking, detailing cars, and spending quality time with his loved ones. He had attended Orangeburg-Calhoun Technical College and was associated with Warren Chapel Baptist Church from a young age.
The incident that claimed his life
unfolded around 10:30 p.m. on the 1200 block of King Street. The Columbia Police Department was alerted to the sound of gunfire by their ShotSpotter technology. Upon arrival, officers discovered Davis with severe injuries and immediately administered first aid until emergency medical services arrived. Despite their efforts, he succumbed to his injuries, which an autopsy later confirmed were caused by a gunshot wound to the upper body.
The investigation into the shooting led police to identify 53-year-old Richard Julius as the suspect. Authorities believe the shooting was the result of an argument between Davis and Julius. Julius was promptly arrested and taken to the Alvin S. Glenn detention center. He was subsequently charged with murder, possession of a weapon during a violent crime, and possession of a firearm by a person convicted of a felony. Court records indicated that Julius had prior convictions for assault and battery.
Following his arrest, the legal process against Richard Julius began. As of the most recent available reports, the court proceedings were still ongoing. The community and the family of Darrious Jerome Davis continue to mourn the loss of a man remembered for his kind spirit and devotion to his family.