Irmo

The family of Byron Jackson, a 45-year-old man who died while in police custody, is demanding increased transparency regarding the circumstances surrounding his death. Jackson was in custody following an incident on June 22, 2025, involving a chase and confrontation with Irmo police officers. The family’s call for clarity comes amidst conflicting reports from law enforcement.

Jackson, a resident of North Augusta and a devoted father of six, graduated from North Augusta High School in 1998. He was reported to have died on June 25, 2025, three days after the confrontation that led to his hospitalization. Police officers contend that they initiated a pursuit after receiving reports of a possible fight inside Jackson’s vehicle. Reports state that Jackson crashed into some debris located in the 7800 Block of Broad River Road while alone in a utility van.

Following the crash, police allege that Jackson kicked open the driver’s side door and attempted to flee, ignoring officers’ commands. In an effort to subdue him, law enforcement used a drive-stun Taser. After he was restrained, Jackson began experiencing breathing difficulties, prompting officers to perform CPR before transporting him to a medical facility. He was not identified at the hospital and was treated as a “John Doe” until family members were notified later.

The Irmo Police Department informed Jackson’s mother of his hospitalization at approximately 7:15 a.m. on June 22. However, the police did not request an investigation from the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) until more than 24 hours after Jackson was admitted. Additionally, initial details regarding the incident were made public only on June 27, causing further concern among Jackson’s family and their legal representation.

The family disputes the police account, claiming that misrepresentations may have occurred in their reporting of events. The family’s attorney has asserted that there was, in fact, no high-speed chase. Furthermore, he noted that Jackson’s vehicle faced mechanical issues at the time of the incident. The Richland County Coroner’s Office has yet to complete the final autopsy report, leaving questions surrounding the cause of death unanswered.

Kiestin Jackson, Byron’s oldest son, highlighted the love and support his father provided to his family during a recent news conference, along with other family members including Jackson’s mother, Bettie. They joined together to share their memories and expressed their desire for justice and clarity regarding Byron’s final moments.

The family’s attorney has emphasized the necessity of releasing body camera and dashcam footage, which could shed light on the officers’ use of force during the encounter. In response to the incident, the Irmo Police Department has placed two officers on administrative leave while discussions about potential legal actions by the family continue. The outcome of the family’s planned lawsuit may hinge on the findings of the ongoing investigation and the material disclosed during that process.

In a statement, the Irmo Police Department extended their condolences to the Jackson family and expressed a desire for clarity amidst the differing narratives surrounding the event. As the community and family seek justice, the circumstances of Byron Jackson’s death remain under investigation, warranting further transparency from the authorities involved.