Irmo Police Update on Byron Jackson Custody Death Case

Irmo Police Provide Updates in Byron Jackson Custody Death Case

The Irmo Police Department held a press conference on Monday to discuss the death of Byron Jackson, a 45-year-old man from North Augusta, who died following an incident while in police custody. Jackson’s death occurred three days after being apprehended during a police chase that took place on June 22, 2025.

The incident unfolded around 2 a.m. when officers responded to reports of a suspected altercation in a vehicle located in the 50 block of Old Well Road. Upon arrival, officers attempted to make contact with the vehicle, which fled the scene, prompting a short chase that ended when the vehicle crashed into wood pallets near a creek. Officers John Parker and Tyler Baker approached the vehicle and attempted to get Jackson to comply with their commands.

A struggle ensued, resulting in the officers and Jackson tumbling about 20 feet down a ravine. During the struggle, Officer Baker deployed a Taser to subdue Jackson, who was eventually handcuffed. Subsequent to the apprehension, Jackson displayed signs of respiratory distress and was later found unable to breathe properly, according to police statements.

Following the incident, Lexington County deputies assisted in extracting Jackson from the creek, and he was subsequently transported to a hospital for treatment. Tragically, Jackson passed away on June 25, three days after the initial incident.

Due to the circumstances surrounding his death while in police custody, the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) has been called to investigate the case. During the press conference, Irmo Police Chief Bobby Dale released bodycam footage from the officers involved, which highlighted parts of the incident, including the chase and the commands given to Jackson. A 911 call played during the briefing indicated that a caller had reported a suspicious van with a possible altercation inside.

Chief Dale announced that Officers Parker and Baker are currently placed on administrative leave while the investigation is ongoing. He confirmed that Jackson had shown signs of respiratory distress during the incident but noted that he did not appear to have any physical injuries at that time.

Jackson’s family has raised concerns regarding the police’s account of the incident, citing inconsistencies and expressing their dissatisfaction with the investigation process. They have publicly demanded the release of all bodycam and dashcam footage, emphasizing its importance for transparency. Following a Freedom of Information Act request, the police department released an incident report, although significant portions remain redacted.

Attorney Bakari Sellers is representing Jackson’s family and has also requested the release of further evidence from both the police and SLED. The family continues to seek clarity and justice regarding the circumstances of Jackson’s death.

As the investigation progresses, the community remains focused on the importance of transparency and accountability in law enforcement practices, especially concerning incidents involving the use of force and the treatment of individuals in police custody.