News Summary
A tragic shooting at Sumter’s Rodeway Inn has left the community in shock. Raekwon Owens, 28, was pronounced dead at the scene while another person was injured. The investigation is ongoing with no arrests made, leaving questions about the shooter and motives unanswered. The community mourns the loss of Owens as authorities seek public assistance in gathering more information.
Tragic Incident at Sumter’s Rodeway Inn Leaves Community in Shock
Sumter, SC, was rocked by a tragic shooting late on Saturday night, January 25, 2025, at the Rodeway Inn located on North Washington Street in downtown. The clock struck around 11 p.m. when chaos unfolded, prompting a swift response from the Sumter Police Department.
A Life Cut Short
In this unfortunate event, a young man named Raekwon Owens, aged 28, has been identified as the victim who lost his life. Surrounded by a community that will surely miss him, he was pronounced dead at the scene due to a single gunshot wound. The Sumter County Coroner, Robbie Baker, confirmed the heartbreaking news that has left many reeling.
Injured but Not Named
There’s sad news beyond just the loss of Owens. Another individual was found injured at the motel. However, details about their condition or identity remain under wraps. The lack of information leaves friends and family in worry as they cling to hope for a full recovery.
The Ongoing Investigation
As of now, the Sumter Police Department has not disclosed any details about the shooter or any other individuals potentially involved in the incident. The motives behind the shooting remain a mystery as well, leaving many questions unanswered. What could have led to such a tragic act in their normally peaceful town?
Community Impact
The tight-knit community of Sumter is understandably shaken. No other injuries have been reported in connection with the incident, but the shadow of violence looms large over this typically tranquil area. It leaves residents and visitors alike feeling uncertain and concerned about their safety.
Next Steps for Justice
In the ongoing quest for answers and justice, no arrests have yet been made, and the investigation is being treated as a serious priority by the Sumter Police Department along with the coroner’s office. An autopsy for Raekwon Owens is planned for Thursday, January 30, at the Medical University of South Carolina in Charleston to provide further insights into the circumstances surrounding his death.
How You Can Help
Authorities are reaching out to the public for assistance. If anyone possesses information related to the shooting, they are encouraged to step forward and contact CrimeStoppers at 888-CRIME-SC or submit a tip online. The more eyes and ears that are out there, the better the chances of uncovering the truth behind this unsettling event.
Ongoing Updates
This incident is still developing, and as time goes on, further details are expected to emerge. The community stands together in hope, mourning the loss of Raekwon Owens while also supporting each other in the face of this tragedy. Updates will continue to be provided as more information becomes available, bringing the community one step closer to understanding what occurred that fateful night at the Rodeway Inn.
As Sumter comes to grips with this shocking event, it’s a reminder of the importance of community support and the need for open conversations about safety, awareness, and the impact of violence in our neighborhoods. Let us stand together and lift each other up during these difficult times.
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Additional Resources
- The State: Tragic Incident at Sumter’s Rodeway Inn
- Wikipedia: Shooting
- WIS TV: Coroner Identifies Man Dead Following Shooting at Rodeway Inn
- Google Search: Sumter shooting
- WLTX: One Dead, One Injured in Saturday Night Shooting at Rodeway Inn
- Google Scholar: Shooting crime impact
- The State: Investigation into Fatal Shooting in Sumter
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Shooting
- WIS TV: Sumter County Coroner Identifies Victim of Fatal Weekend Shooting
- Google News: Sumter shooting updates
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.
