News Summary
A 45-year-old man from North Augusta, Byron Jackson, died in police custody after a confrontation with Irmo police on June 22. The incident, which led to breathing difficulties for Jackson, is under investigation by SLED. Officers involved have been placed on leave as authorities seek clarity surrounding the circumstances of his death and the handling of situations involving police intervention.
Irmo, SC – A 45-year-old man identified as Byron Jackson from North Augusta, SC, died while in police custody following an incident early Sunday morning, June 22, 2025. The Richland County Coroner Naida Rutherford confirmed Jackson’s identity after the event that unfolded around 2:05 a.m. The circumstances leading to his death are under investigation by the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED).
The Irmo Police were dispatched to the New Friarsgate area in response to reports of a potential fight occurring inside a vehicle. Upon arrival, officers attempted to stop the vehicle, which fled the scene, prompting a short pursuit that concluded near a Dollar General on Broad River Road. Officers engaged in an altercation with Jackson before he was taken into custody.
After being restrained, Jackson experienced breathing difficulties. Emergency Medical Services (EMS) were summoned, and both officers and medics initiated life-saving measures while transporting him to the hospital. Despite these efforts, Jackson was pronounced dead after being taken into custody. The exact cause of death has not been disclosed by authorities as they continue to investigate the incident.
In the aftermath of Jackson’s death, two Irmo police officers have been placed on leave pending the outcome of the investigation. Irmo Police Chief Bobby Dale characterized the situation as tragic, underscoring the department’s commitment to maintaining transparency and accountability throughout the investigative process. The Richland County Coroner’s Office is cooperating with SLED to ensure a thorough examination of all facts related to the case.
While the details of the altercation and the subsequent health crisis faced by Jackson are still being uncovered, the incident has raised concerns about the treatment and handling of individuals in police custody. As the community seeks answers, the collaboration between local authorities and SLED is expected to provide clarity on the events that transpired that fateful early morning.
This tragic incident highlights the ongoing challenges law enforcement faces in crisis situations, particularly regarding citizen safety and the management of potentially volatile encounters. The results of the investigation will likely lead to discussions about police practices and policies in handling similar situations in the future.
As of now, the community is left with questions surrounding Jackson’s case, while officials promise a thorough investigation to address the complexities that arise in incidents involving police intervention and civilian health crises.
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Additional Resources
- The State
- Wikipedia: Police Custody Death
- WLTX
- Google Search: Police Handling of In Custody Deaths
- ABC Columbia
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Law Enforcement
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.
