Florence County, September 28, 2025
News Summary
A dangerous standoff in Florence County concluded tragically with the shooting of a 30-year-old man, Justin Lowery. The incident began with reports of gunfire, where Lowery reportedly threatened EMS personnel and fired at an ambulance. After barricading himself for hours, he exited the residence and was shot by a deputy. Thankfully, no deputies were injured. An investigation by the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division is now underway to examine the circumstances surrounding this incident.
Florence County
A deadly standoff in Florence County ended Wednesday night with a deputy-involved shooting that claimed the life of a 30-year-old man identified as Justin Lowery. The incident unfolded on Anderson Field Road, where Lowery reportedly fired at an ambulance and threatened his mother and emergency medical services (EMS) personnel.
The Florence County Sheriff’s Office was alerted to the situation following reports of gunfire. Law enforcement officers responded to the scene swiftly. Sheriff TJ Joye indicated that gunfire occurred both at the beginning of the incident and at its conclusion, leading to a complex and dangerous standoff that would last several hours.
Lowery barricaded himself within a home, prompting a protracted negotiation process between law enforcement and him. During these negotiations, law enforcement officials conveyed Lowery’s insistence on harming responding officials if they attempted to engage him. The tense situation raised concerns for the safety of all involved, especially for the paramedics initially called to assist.
As the standoff progressed, law enforcement prepared to take action. At one point, Lowery exited the residence in what was described as a “threatening manner.” In response to this perceived threat, a deputy shot Lowery. He was subsequently transported to a local hospital, where he was pronounced dead shortly after arrival.
Remarkably, no deputies were injured during the incident. An investigation into the shooting has been initiated by the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) to assess the circumstances surrounding the use of force. Sheriff Joye expressed notable frustration regarding a miscommunication during the crisis that potentially endangered the lives of paramedics on the scene.
This incident marks an unprecedented occurrence in the sheriff’s 40 years of service, highlighting the increasing dangers faced by law enforcement and emergency responders. The series of events leading up to the shooting have raised community concerns regarding safety protocols and the management of emergency situations.
Background Context
Standoffs involving law enforcement and armed individuals are complex situations often requiring significant tactical and emotional management. They can evolve rapidly, as seen in Florence County, and can involve heightened risks not only for law enforcement but for bystanders and emergency personnel as well. Communications among various responding agencies are crucial, and lapses can have severe consequences, as illustrated in this case.
FAQs
What led to the standoff in Florence County?
The standoff began when Justin Lowery allegedly fired at an ambulance and threatened his mother and EMS personnel. Law enforcement was called in response to these dangerous actions.
What was the outcome of the standoff?
The standoff ended with a deputy shooting Justin Lowery, who was then transported to a hospital where he was pronounced dead.
Were any deputies injured during the incident?
No deputies were injured during the standoff and the subsequent shooting incident.
Is an investigation underway regarding the shooting?
Yes, the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division is conducting an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the deputy-involved shooting.
Key Features of the Incident
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Anderson Field Road, Florence County |
| Suspect | Justin Lowery, 30 |
| Initial Incident | Alleged shooting at an ambulance and threats against EMS personnel |
| Duration of Standoff | Several hours |
| Outcome | Deputy-involved shooting resulting in Lowery’s death |
| Injuries | No injuries reported among deputies |
| Investigation | South Carolina Law Enforcement Division is investigating |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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Man Arrested After Shooting Gun in His Yard in Florence, SC
Man Arrested for Domestic Violence in Florence, SC
Florence County Deputy Fatally Injured in Car Accident
Tragic Loss of Deputy in Traffic Accident
Tragic Death of Florence County Deputy in Accident
Tragic Loss: Florence County Deputy Dies in Vehicle Collision
Additional Resources
- WPDE: Florence County Standoff
- Wikipedia: Florence County, South Carolina
- WBTW: SLED Investigates Florence County Shooting
- Google Search: Florence County Standoff
- Post and Courier: Florence County Standoff
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Law Enforcement
- WMBF News: Charges after Florence County Standoff
- Google News: Florence County SLED
Author: STAFF HERE FLORENCE WRITER
FLORENCE STAFF WRITER The FLORENCE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREFlorence.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Florence, Florence County, 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 Florence Festival of Lights, Pee Dee Pride, and agricultural expos at the Florence Center. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Florence Regional Chamber of Commerce and the Pee Dee Area Council of Governments, plus leading businesses in healthcare and retail that power the local economy such as McLeod Health and Pee Dee Electric Cooperative. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERECharleston.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGreenville.com, and HEREHiltonHead.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
