News Summary
Byron Jackson, a 45-year-old North Augusta resident, died in Irmo police custody, prompting his family to demand the release of information regarding his arrest. Civil rights attorney Bakari Sellers is representing the family as they seek accountability from the Irmo Police Department and transparency concerning the circumstances of Jackson’s death. Investigations by the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division are ongoing.
Irmo
Byron Jackson, a 45-year-old resident of North Augusta, died in police custody on June 25, 2025, following an incident that occurred three days earlier during the early morning hours of June 22. His family, represented by civil rights attorney Bakari Sellers, is demanding the Irmo Police Department release detailed information regarding Jackson’s arrest and subsequent detainment.
The confrontation took place in the New Friarsgate neighborhood, where police initially responded to reports of a fight inside a vehicle. However, officers later stated they found Jackson alone when they arrived. Allegedly, Jackson engaged in an altercation with the officers during his arrest.
After being taken into custody, police reported that Jackson began experiencing difficulty breathing and required CPR before being transported to a local hospital. There were no known health conditions that could account for his breathing issues, according to his family. The Irmo Police Department became aware of Jackson’s death from hospital officials on June 25, five days after the encounter.
As of now, the cause of Jackson’s death has not been disclosed by the police department or the Richland County Coroner’s Office. Meanwhile, two police officers involved in the incident are currently on administrative leave while the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) conducts an ongoing investigation. This investigation has led to a suspension of further information releases from the Irmo Police Department, prompting concern and frustration among Jackson’s family and their supporters.
Sellers contended that the officers’ initial statements mischaracterized the events leading to Jackson’s death. He emphasized that there was no high-speed chase involved, arguing that Jackson was driving a malfunctioning utility van that prevented him from fleeing quickly. Additionally, there’s concern over the delay of more than 24 hours before SLED’s involvement, with Sellers asserting that the division typically responds immediately in cases of this nature.
Jackson’s family expressed their devastation and confusion regarding the circumstances surrounding his hospitalization. His mother, Bettie Jackson, relayed her sorrow at not being notified promptly about her son’s condition, where she was shocked to discover he was on a ventilator. Reports indicated that Jackson had been listed as a “John Doe” at the hospital prior to the family being informed of his situation.
In light of these events, the family is calling for greater accountability from the Irmo Police Department concerning their handling of Jackson’s detainment and the subsequent dissemination of information. They are particularly requesting the release of body cam and dash cam footage from the incident to ensure transparency in the investigation.
As Jackson’s families seek justice, they reflect on the meaningful impact he had on their lives. Kiestin Jackson, Byron’s eldest son, highlighted his father’s positive influence and noted his accomplishments as a dedicated father and community member. Jackson leaves behind his mother, two sisters, one brother, and six children.
In conclusion, as the investigation continues, the community watches closely for updates and expects the Irmo Police Department to address the serious allegations and concerns raised by Byron Jackson’s family. The potential for legal action against the police department remains on the table, contingent upon the release of pertinent information and evidence.
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Additional Resources
- WRDW: Family Seeks Video Release After Man’s Death in SC Police Custody
- Wikipedia: Police Custody
- WISTV: Family of Man Who Died in Irmo Police Custody Holds Press Conference
- Google Search: Byron Jackson Irmo Police Custody
- The State: Byron Jackson’s Tragic Death in Police Custody
- Google Scholar: Byron Jackson Irmo Police
- WLTX: Byron Jackson’s Death in Irmo
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Police Accountability
- WACH: Attorney Demands Release of Footage in Death of Midlands Man
- Google News: Byron Jackson Irmo
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.
