Joshua Edmonds Obituary, Death – Deputies in Richland County are investigating a deadly shooting that left a teenager dead on Tuesday evening. Authorities said the incident unfolded around 5:30 p.m. after the sheriff’s department received a ShotSpotter alert indicating gunfire in the 200 block of Aster Circle. Responding deputies arrived quickly on the scene, where they discovered a young male victim who had sustained at least one gunshot wound.
Emergency crews transported the injured teen to a nearby hospital for treatment. Despite efforts by medical staff, he later succumbed to his injuries. The Richland County Coroner’s Office identified the victim as 16-year-old Joshua Edmonds of Columbia.
Following initial interviews and investigative work at the scene, deputies were able to identify a suspect in connection with the shooting. Authorities said the suspect, Paul Henry, was located not long afterward and taken into custody without further incident.
Henry, though still under 18, is being charged as an adult due to the severity of the case. He faces several felony charges, including murder, attempted murder, possession of a weapon during the commission of a violent crime, and illegal possession of a firearm by a minor. After being processed, Henry was transported to the Alvin S. Glenn Detention Center, where he awaits a bond hearing.
Investigators revealed that evidence points to Henry firing at two juveniles during the encounter. One of those targeted was Edmonds, who was struck and later died. The second juvenile, though allegedly shot at, was not hit and escaped injury. Deputies said this detail was crucial in shaping the charges, as it supports both the murder and attempted murder counts against Henry.
At this stage, authorities believe the shooting was an isolated incident rather than part of a broader pattern of violence. The sheriff’s department has not released further details about what led to the gunfire, nor have they discussed any potential motive. Detectives are continuing to gather evidence and conduct interviews to piece together the circumstances surrounding the confrontation.
In the meantime, investigators are appealing to the community for assistance. Anyone who may have witnessed the shooting or has information that could aid the case is encouraged to reach out directly to the Richland County Sheriff’s Department at (803) 576-3000. Tips can also be submitted anonymously through CrimeStoppers, a channel that allows residents to share information without revealing their identity.
The death of Edmonds has drawn concern from community members, as the incident underscores the ongoing problem of youth violence and access to firearms among minors. Officials have not indicated how Henry obtained the weapon allegedly used in the shooting, but his charges for unlawful possession highlight the legal restrictions already in place for those under 18.
Sheriff’s deputies stressed that, while the arrest brings some closure to the immediate investigation, the broader work of understanding and preventing such tragedies continues. The department has pledged to keep the community updated as new details emerge and as the case moves through the courts.
For now, Edmonds’ family is left grieving the sudden and violent loss of their son, while the suspect faces the possibility of a lengthy prison sentence if convicted. The Richland County Sheriff’s Department continues to emphasize the importance of community cooperation in solving violent crimes and ensuring public safety.
