News Summary
Byron Jackson, a 45-year-old man from North Augusta, died while in police custody after a confrontation with Irmo Police. Following a brief police chase, Jackson was arrested, but soon began having difficulty breathing. Despite life-saving measures, he was pronounced dead at a hospital. The South Carolina Law Enforcement Division is conducting an independent investigation, and two officers involved have been placed on administrative leave. The incident has raised community concerns regarding police procedures and accountability.
Irmo, South Carolina – Police Custody Death of Byron Jackson Under Investigation
Byron Jackson, a 45-year-old resident of North Augusta, South Carolina, has been identified as the man who died while in police custody following a confrontation with officers on Sunday, June 21. The Richland County Coroner, Naida Rutherford, confirmed Jackson’s identity in an official statement.
The events leading to Jackson’s death began around 2:05 a.m. when Irmo Police officers received a report about a possible fight occurring inside a vehicle in the New Friarsgate area. Upon arrival, officers observed the vehicle fleeing the scene, prompting a brief police pursuit that concluded near a Dollar General store on Broad River Road.
After the vehicle came to a stop, Jackson, who was both the driver and sole occupant, reportedly engaged in a physical altercation with the officers. Jackson was subsequently taken into custody. Shortly after the arrest, he began to experience difficulty breathing. In response, officers initiated life-saving measures, including cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), while awaiting the arrival of emergency medical services (EMS).
Despite these efforts, Jackson was pronounced dead at a hospital on Wednesday after being transported there from the arrest site. The circumstances surrounding his death have prompted the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) to launch an independent investigation.
Officers Placed on Leave
As part of standard procedure following incidents involving police custody deaths, two officers involved in the arrest have been placed on administrative leave pending the investigation’s outcome. This policy aims to ensure an objective review process and accountability for law enforcement actions during such incidents.
Community and Departmental Response
The Irmo Police Chief, Bobby Dale, extended condolences to Jackson’s family, affirming the department’s commitment to transparency throughout the investigation. He emphasized that the police department takes these incidents seriously and is dedicated to determining the facts of the case comprehensively.
Ongoing Investigation
No additional details regarding the investigation are currently available, as authorities have stated that they will not release further information while the investigation by SLED is ongoing. The situation has been met with community concern and calls for thorough examination of police procedures and actions during the encounter.
Background Context
Police custody deaths are sensitive incidents that can raise significant questions about law enforcement practices and accountability. The responsibility of police is to ensure public safety while respecting individual rights. Incidents like this typically lead to investigations to determine whether appropriate procedures were followed and if any misconduct occurred.
Authorities often implement protocols where an independent agency investigates incidents involving police custody deaths to maintain public trust and ensure a fair examination of all facts. Community members frequently engage with law enforcement agencies following such events, pressing for transparency and improvements in policing practices.
The investigation into Byron Jackson’s death is one of many incidents exhibiting the delicate balance law enforcement must navigate while enforcing the law and ensuring the safety of all individuals involved.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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Man Dies in Police Custody After Altercation in Irmo
Investigation Launched After Suspect Dies in Police Custody
Irmo Officers Placed on Leave Amid Investigation of Suspect’s Death
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Additional Resources
- WLTX
- Wikipedia: Police Custody Deaths
- WIS TV
- Google Search: Byron Jackson Irmo Police Custody Death
- The State
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Police
- WACH
- Google Scholar: Police Custody Deaths
- ABC Columbia
- Google News: Irmo Police Custody Death
Author: STAFF HERE IRMO
The IRMO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREIrmo.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Irmo, Lexington and Richland Counties, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Irmo Okra Strut Festival, Harbison Community Events, and local sports tournaments at the Palmetto Health Credit Union Foundation Stadium. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Irmo Chapin Recreation Commission and the Lexington Chamber and Visitors Center, plus leading businesses in retail and healthcare that power the local economy such as Village at Sandhill and Lexington Medical Center. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
