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.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Investigation Launched into Death of Byron Jackson After Police Encounter
Police Custody Death of Byron Jackson Under Investigation
Irmo Police Investigated Following Fatal Altercation
Investigation Launched into Death of Byron Jackson in Police Custody
Truck Driver Arrested After Bomb Threat on I-85
Officers Placed on Leave Following In-Custody Death of Suspect
Investigation Launched Following Suspect’s Death in Irmo Police Custody
Shooting Incident at Holiday Weekend Party Boat Leaves Ten Injured
Man Dies in Police Custody After Altercation in Irmo
Investigation Launched After Suspect Dies in Police Custody
Additional Resources
- The State
- Wikipedia: Police Custody Death
- WLTX
- Google Search: Police Handling of In Custody Deaths
- ABC Columbia
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Law Enforcement
