Darrius Ellison, an 18-year-old male, had a smile that could light up a room and a love for his family, sports, and sharing corny jokes. He attended Marion County Public Schools and was known for his joyous presence that he shared with everyone he encountered. His life, however, was tragically cut short on a Friday in April 2020.
On April 10, 2020, in Marion, South Carolina, Darrius Ellison was fatally shot on Middleton Street.
The promising young man, who enjoyed football, wrestling, and dancing, became a victim of gun violence, leaving his family and friends to grapple with the sudden and profound loss. The news of his death rippled through the community, prompting an immediate investigation by the Marion Police Department.
In the days following the shooting, law enforcement identified a suspect, Derrick Buxton, who was described as armed and dangerous. A search for Buxton ensued, and for a period, he remained at large. The investigation extended beyond the borders of South Carolina, involving multiple law enforcement agencies. In early June 2020, their collaborative efforts paid off. Derrick Buxton was located and apprehended in Columbus, Ohio, by the Franklin County SWAT team, the Franklin County Drug Task Force, the Department of Homeland Security, and the Marion Police Department. Following his capture, Buxton awaited an extradition hearing to be returned to South Carolina to face legal proceedings for his alleged role in the death of Darrius Ellison.
