18-Year-Old Tranard E. Sheppard Found Fatally Shot in Warrenville; Aiken County Authorities Launch Homicide Investigation

18-Year-Old Tranard E. Sheppard Found Fatally Shot in Warrenville; Aiken County Authorities Launch Homicide Investigation

🔍 Incident Overview

• Date & Time
  The shooting occurred in the early hours of Sunday, June 22, 2025, with deputies responding to 911 calls around 1:48 a.m. reporting gunfire near Sarah Street and Farrell Street in Warrenville, Aiken County  .
• Location
  Tranard E. Sheppard was discovered in a residential yard in the 400 block of Sarah Street. This neighborhood, typically quiet, was immediately disrupted by the arrival of law enforcement and emergency personnel  .
• Discovery & Pronouncement
  Deputies arrived to find him lying in the yard with multiple gunshot wounds. Emergency responders pronounced him dead at 2:56 a.m., as confirmed by Aiken County Coroner Darryl Ables  .

👤 About the Victim

• Identity & Age
  The victim was identified as Tranard E. Sheppard, an 18‑year‑old resident of Warrenville  .
• Community Response
  Family members and local residents described the situation as shocking and deeply saddening. Authorities included a still photo of Sheppard, asking the public for higher‑quality images to assist in their inquiries .

🕵️ Investigation Status

• Active Investigation
  The Aiken County Sheriff’s Office is leading the homicide probe, with support from Coroner Darryl Ables. So far, no suspects have been publicly identified or taken into custody  .
• Autopsy Planned
  An autopsy is scheduled to be conducted in Newberry to determine the exact cause and nature of the wounds  .
• Call for Public Assistance
  Authorities are urging anyone with information — such as tips or CCTV footage — to reach out to the Aiken County Sheriff’s Office at 803‑642‑1761  .
  Additionally, the Augusta Press invited those who may possess clearer photos of Sheppard to text them to a designated tip line: 803‑487‑3224  .

🏡 Community Impact

• The shooting has shaken residents in what is generally a calm and closely-knit community.
• Local media reports highlighted the suddenness and senselessness of the act, prompting widespread concern about youth violence and gun safety in the area .

📰 Next Steps & Ongoing Updates

1. Awaiting Autopsy Results — The Newberry coroner’s findings will offer more detail on the nature and intent of the injuries.
2. Sheriff’s Follow-Up — Investigators will be reviewing surveillance footage, exploring potential motives, and examining community leads.
3. Public Appeals — Additional information, photos, or eyewitness accounts remain crucial to advancing the investigation. Officials have promised to provide updates when available.

In Summary

Tranard E. Sheppard, a young Warrenville resident, was tragically shot and killed in the early morning of June 22, 2025. The Aiken County Sheriff’s Office has launched a full-scale homicide investigation, but no suspects have been named yet. With physical evidence and witness statements being gathered, they are urging community involvement to bring answers to this heartbreaking loss.

If you have any information—even something that might seem minor—please contact the Aiken County Sheriff’s Office at 803‑642‑1761.