KINGSTREE, S.C. — Community Devastated After Fatal Shooting Claims Lives of Two Teenagers at Kings Crossing Apartment Complex
A profound wave of grief has swept over the town of Kingstree, South Carolina, following the tragic and senseless deaths of two teenagers who were fatally shot on Sunday, June 29, 2025, at the Kings Crossing Apartment Complex. The Williamsburg County Coroner’s Office, led by Coroner Ivori L. Henryhand, has formally identified the victims as Mycheal Edwards-Wallace, 18, and Edwin Cooper, 16, both residents of Kingstree.
The shocking violence that erupted Sunday evening has left families shattered, friends in mourning, and an entire community grappling with sorrow, disbelief, and unanswered questions.
Promising Lives Cut Tragically Short
Both Mycheal and Edwin were young men filled with potential—bright lights in the lives of those who loved them. Mycheal Edwards-Wallace, known for his quiet strength and big heart, had recently graduated and was looking forward to building a future. Friends say he dreamed of working in skilled trades or possibly joining the military. Edwin Cooper, just 16, was a high school student with a contagious laugh and a gift for athletics. He played basketball with a local youth league and was described by teachers as “respectful, curious, and full of promise.”
“These were good boys,” said a family friend through tears. “They had their whole lives ahead of them. They didn’t deserve this.”
Ongoing Investigation and Autopsy
Authorities responded to reports of gunfire at the Kings Crossing Apartment Complex late Sunday. Upon arrival, law enforcement discovered both victims suffering from gunshot wounds. Despite life-saving efforts by first responders, both teens were pronounced dead at the scene.
The Williamsburg County Sheriff’s Office is leading the investigation, working closely with the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED). No arrests have been announced as of Monday, and officials have not yet released any information regarding suspects or motive.
Autopsies for both Mycheal and Edwin are scheduled for Saturday, July 5, 2025, and authorities say they hope the results will aid in clarifying the circumstances surrounding the shooting.
“We are actively pursuing leads and remain committed to finding those responsible,” a Williamsburg County Sheriff’s Office spokesperson stated. “We ask anyone with information to come forward.”
Community in Mourning
The impact of the tragedy has reverberated far beyond the Kings Crossing complex. Candlelight vigils are being planned, and dozens of tributes have poured in via social media, with classmates, teachers, and community members sharing memories, photos, and prayers.
Local churches have opened their doors for grief counseling, and Williamsburg County School District officials have confirmed that crisis support teams will be available for students affected by the loss.
“This is a devastating blow to our community,” said Pastor Reggie Simmons, who is helping organize a vigil in the boys’ memory. “We must support these families and commit to creating a safer future for our children.”
Call for Peace and Justice
The deaths of Mycheal and Edwin have renewed urgent conversations around youth violence, gun safety, and the need for greater community intervention programs in Kingstree and beyond. Local leaders are calling for unity and justice in the wake of the tragedy.
“We can’t allow this cycle of violence to keep robbing our youth,” said a Williamsburg County council member. “Our hearts are broken, but we must come together to ensure their deaths are not in vain.”
Remembering Mycheal and Edwin
As the community prepares to say their goodbyes, the families of Mycheal Edwards-Wallace and Edwin Cooper have asked for privacy as they grieve and plan funeral arrangements. Loved ones are remembering the boys not for the way they died, but for the way they lived—with joy, energy, and love.
“Mycheal had a smile that lit up a room,” his cousin shared. “And Edwin… he was everyone’s little brother. They were so loved.”
The Kings Crossing tragedy serves as a painful reminder of the fragility of life and the need for communities to stand together in the face of violence.
💔 Please keep the Edwards-Wallace and Cooper families in your thoughts and prayers. Anyone with information related to the shooting is urged to contact the Williamsburg County Sheriff’s Office or Crime Stoppers.
🕯️ Rest in peace, Mycheal and Edwin. Your lives mattered. You will not be forgotten.
