Columbia, South Carolina, September 30, 2025
News Summary
A 16-year-old boy named Joshua Edmonds was tragically killed in a daylight shooting in Columbia, South Carolina. This incident has left the community in shock and mourning, as police arrested a 17-year-old suspect in connection with the crime. Joshua, a student at Irmo High School with aspirations of becoming a mechanic, was remembered by his family and community members for his humor and athleticism. The shooting has prompted discussions about youth violence and the need for change to ensure the safety of children.
Columbia, South Carolina – A 16-Year-Old Boy Killed in Daylight Shooting
A tragic shooting incident in Columbia, South Carolina, has left a community in mourning after 16-year-old Joshua Edmonds was killed on Tuesday afternoon. The incident occurred around 5:30 p.m. in the Aster Circle area, where Joshua was visiting a friend when he became a victim of gun violence.
The Richland County Sheriff’s Department has arrested 17-year-old Paul Henry in connection with the shooting. Henry faces serious charges as an adult, including murder, attempted murder, possession of a weapon during a violent crime, and unlawful possession of a firearm while under the age of 18.
Victim’s Family Grieves
The loss of Joshua has devastated his family, particularly his mother, Lakeisha Edmonds. She expressed her anger and sorrow, asserting that her son was not friends with Henry and believes Joshua was chased and targeted before he was shot. At the time of the shooting, Joshua was with another teenager who escaped injury. Law enforcement was alerted to the incident via a ShotSpotter notification and found Joshua with a fatal gunshot wound; he was later pronounced dead at a local hospital.
In the days following the incident, Lakeisha described an emotional journey filled with despair, stating that it felt like an “extreme roller coaster.” Joshua, a student at Irmo High School, was on track to graduate in 2027 and had dreams of becoming a mechanic. He is survived by three siblings, including a twin brother.
Joshua’s older brother, Emmanuel, hopes that this tragedy will catalyze discussions for change and healing within their community. In reaction to Henry’s arrest, Lakeisha plans to speak at the pending bond hearing to advocate against granting bond, seeing it as a necessary step in seeking justice for her son.
Community Response and School Support
The Lexington-Richland School District 5, recognizing the impact of the incident, has made grief counselors available for students and staff to help the school community cope with the loss. The tragic shooting has reignited concerns over escalating youth violence in the area, sparking discussions about prevention strategies to protect children from similar fates in the future.
Legacy of Joshua Edmonds
According to family members, Joshua was known for his athleticism and sense of humor. His mother and siblings fondly remember him for his ability to make others laugh and emphasize that he “did not deserve” what happened to him. This sentiment echoes the anguish felt by many in the community, as they mourn the loss of a bright young life cut short.
Paul Henry remains incarcerated as he awaits a bond hearing, for which a date has yet to be set. The ongoing investigation and community conversations about youth violence and safety highlight a pressing issue that continues to challenge neighborhoods across South Carolina and nationwide.
As the community grapples with this senseless act of violence, they are left reflecting on the life of Joshua Edmonds and the need for change to ensure the safety and well-being of their youth.
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Additional Resources
- KOMU News
- Wikipedia: Police Shooting
- The State
- Google Search: Columbia South Carolina shooting
- ABC Columbia
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Gun Violence
- KRCG News
- Google News: Columbia
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.
