On a tragic Friday evening, March 17, 2023, the life of 17-year-old Kelvin T. Simmons Jr., a Black/African American male, was cut short by gun violence in Goose Creek, South Carolina. Known affectionately as 'Jay' or 'Kel,' Simmons was at the Marrington Village apartments off Harbour Lake Drive when the fatal shooting occurred. Deputies from the Berkeley County Sheriff's Office were called to the scene and discovered Simmons on the apartment complex's basketball court, suffering from a gunshot
wound. He was quickly transported to a local hospital, but his injuries proved too severe, and he was pronounced dead.
Kelvin was a resident of Goose Creek and had been a student at Goose Creek High School before transitioning to homeschooling. He was remembered for his love of sports, particularly football and basketball. The news of his death sent ripples of grief through the community, deeply affecting his family and friends who mourned the loss of a young life full of potential. He is survived by his parents, Kelvin Sr. and Tammi Simmons, and his siblings.
In the wake of the shooting, the Berkeley County Sheriff's Office launched an investigation into the circumstances surrounding Simmons's death. Despite their efforts, no arrests have been announced in connection with the homicide, and no suspects have been publicly identified. The investigation remains active and ongoing. Authorities have urged anyone with information that could lead to a breakthrough in the case to come forward and contact investigators. The community remains hopeful that justice will one day be served for Kelvin Tyrone Simmons Jr.
