Caleb Jamar Elijah Roach, an 18-year-old Black/African American male, was a senior at Spartanburg High School with a promising future ahead of him. Known affectionately as 'Demo Duck,' he was an active and well-loved member of his school's JROTC program and was looking forward to attending Johnson C. Smith University in the fall to study music and biology. He was a young man remembered for his vibrant personality and his dedication to his family, friends, and his future aspirations.
He was part of a rap group called Otha Side with his brothers and godbrothers and was known as an enforcer of peace and harmony among those he loved.
Tragically, on the evening of February 20, 2019, Caleb's life was cut short. He was a passenger in a moving vehicle in Spartanburg, South Carolina, when another passenger retrieved a gun from under a seat. Believing the weapon to be unloaded after removing the magazine, the passenger pulled the trigger. Unbeknownst to them, a bullet remained in the chamber, and Caleb was struck. He was rushed to Spartanburg Regional Medical Center, where he succumbed to his injuries. The Spartanburg County Coroner later confirmed his death as a 'trauma related death'.
The Spartanburg County Sheriff's Office immediately launched an investigation into the fatal shooting. After interviewing all individuals involved and examining the preliminary evidence, investigators determined the shooting to be a tragic accident. The Sheriff's Office consulted with the Solicitor's Office to review the case and determine if any criminal charges were warranted. In a decision made in consultation with Caleb's mother, who was in agreement, it was determined that no criminal charges would be filed in connection with his death. The incident served as a devastating loss to his family and the entire Spartanburg community, highlighting the critical importance of firearm safety.
