Johnsonville, South Carolina, September 18, 2025 News Summary Kenneth Washington Jr. has been arrested in connection with the murder of 3-year-old Antonio Burgess in Johnsonville, South Carolina. The tragic incident occurred during a domestic dispute, raising concerns about community safety. Authorities allege that Washington aided another suspect, Joseph Waterman Jr., who is still at large. Washington faces serious charges and is currently held in detention awaiting a hearing. Johnsonville, South Carolina – Kenneth Washington Jr. Arrested for Murder in Fatal Shooting of Toddler Kenneth Washington Jr., a 36-year-old resident of Hemingway, has been arrested and charged with murder in connection to the tragic death of a 3-year-old boy, Antonio Kamani Burgess II. The incident took place in Johnsonville, South Carolina, on September 13, 2025, and has shaken the local community. The Florence County deputies responded to a report of a gunshot victim shortly after 9:25 p.m. that evening. They arrived at the Johnsonville Rescue Squad located at 213 E. Broad St. and found the young child suffering from a gunshot wound. According to authorities, Washington was involved in a domestic dispute which led to the shooting. It has been reported that he allegedly drove a co-defendant to the location of the incident and was present during the altercation. Washington is accused of aiding the co-defendant by helping them leave the crime scene. Notably, neither Washington nor the co-defendant made any attempts to contact law enforcement or to render assistance to the injured child. The investigation revealed that Antonio Burgess was shot in the head when a gun was discharged near the vehicle’s window during a confrontation. Several individuals were reportedly in the vehicle at the time of the shooting. A second individual, Joseph Waterman Jr., 34, is currently being sought as a person of interest in this case and is also facing murder charges related to the incident. Kenneth Washington Jr. is currently being held at the Florence County Detention Center and is awaiting a bond hearing. Under South Carolina law, a conviction for murder could lead to a prison sentence ranging from 30 years to life or potentially even capital punishment. Background of the Incident The shooting incident involving Antonio Burgess has raised significant concerns within the community about safety and the issues surrounding domestic disputes. The fact that a young child became a victim of such violence underscores a growing alarm about gun-related incidents in residential areas. The community is grappling with the impact of this tragedy as authorities continue their investigation. Witnesses have come forward noting the chaotic scenes that unfolded on the night of the shooting, emphasizing the need for urgent community discussions on preventing violence and supporting affected families. What Happens Next? As the case unfolds, Kenneth Washington Jr. will face legal proceedings that could have serious consequences. The community is awaiting more information about the ongoing search for Joseph Waterman Jr., who remains a person of interest in this sensitive case. Key Points Kenneth Washington Jr. charged with the murder of 3-year-old Antonio Burgess. Incident occurred in Johnsonville, South Carolina on September 13, 2025. Washington allegedly aided in the removal of a co-defendant from the crime scene. Child was shot in the head during a domestic dispute involving a gun. Washington is being held at the Florence County Detention Center awaiting a bond hearing. Potential penalties for murder in South Carolina include 30 years to life or capital punishment. Community Response The local community in Johnsonville is in shock following the tragic incident. Community leaders are calling for discussions on ensuring safety and preventing similar occurrences in the future. The case has highlighted the need for increased awareness regarding domestic violence and its potential ramifications, especially for innocent bystanders such as children. FAQ Section What are the charges against Kenneth Washington Jr.? Kenneth Washington Jr. is charged with murder in the fatal shooting of 3-year-old Antonio Burgess. When and where did the incident occur? The incident occurred in Johnsonville, South Carolina, on September 13, 2025, at approximately 9:25 p.m. What led to the shooting of Antonio Burgess? The shooting followed a domestic dispute during which a gun was discharged near a vehicle’s window, striking the child. Who is Joseph Waterman Jr.? Joseph Waterman Jr., 34, is a person of interest in the case and is also being sought for murder related to the incident. What penalties does Washington face if convicted? If convicted of murder in South Carolina, Washington could face a prison sentence of 30 years to life or possible capital punishment. Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic HERE Resources Florence County Shooting Linked to Drug Deal Gone Wrong Tragic Shooting Claims Life of Young Boy in Johnsonville Toddler Fatally Shot in Johnsonville; Suspect Arrested Florence County Man Charged with Murder and Domestic Violence Tragic Shooting Claims Life of 3-Year-Old in Johnsonville Tragedy Strikes as Three-Year-Old Killed in SC Shooting Shooting Incident Leaves Toddler Fatally Injured in Florence County 3-Year-Old Child Fatally Shot in Florence County, SC Investigation Underway After Toddler is Fatally Shot in Florence County Two Women Arrested in Tragic Death of Toddler in Florence Additional Resources WPDE News: Suspect Arrested for Murder Post and Courier: Kenneth Washington Arrested ABC News 4: Teen Girl Charged in Murder Wikipedia: Violence in the United States Google News: South Carolina Shooting
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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.
