In the late summer of 2018, a profound tragedy struck the small community of Warrenville, South Carolina, with the death of a young boy named Chavous McKinley IV. Known affectionately as 'Boonie,' he was just three years old at the time of his passing on September 24, 2018. The African American toddler's life was cut short in a heartbreaking incident that unfolded within the supposed safety of his own home.
On that fateful Monday, young Chavous discovered his father's Glock 42.
380-caliber handgun. In a moment of childish curiosity, he accidentally discharged the weapon, inflicting a fatal gunshot wound to his chest. The devastating event took place at the family's residence on Oxpens Road, sending ripples of shock and grief through the local community. Emergency services responded, and he was transported to Augusta University Medical Center in Augusta, Georgia, where he ultimately succumbed to his injury.
In the wake of the tragedy, authorities investigated the circumstances of the shooting. The Aiken County Sheriff's Office looked into the incident, and the Aiken County Coroner's Office conducted an autopsy. Ultimately, the death was ruled an accident, and it was determined that the parents would likely not face charges in connection with the devastating loss of their son.
The community mourned alongside the grieving family. Funeral services for Chavous were held on Saturday, September 29, 2018, at Zion Fair Missionary Baptist Church in Aiken. He was remembered as a happy child, full of joy, who loved his twin sister. The incident served as a tragic reminder of the importance of firearm safety, particularly in households with young children. Chavous McKinley IV was born on June 11, 2015, to his parents McKinley Chavous III and Sasha Butterfield Chavous.
