MARLBORO COUNTY, South Carolina — The Marlboro County Coroner’s Office has identified the young man who died in a Monday evening shooting in the Bennettsville area, and local authorities are continuing their investigation into the tragic incident.
Officials say Towan Harrington, 18, of Bennettsville, was the victim of the fatal shooting that happened in the Bennetts Pointe Apartments area on Cheraw Highway. The Marlboro County Coroner, De’Aron Smith, released Harrington’s name as part of the ongoing review of the case.
According to law enforcement, the shooting occurred on Monday evening when Harrington sought help after suffering a gunshot injury. He went to the apartment complex area for assistance, but despite efforts to help him, he later died from his injuries.
The Bennettsville Police Department is working alongside the Marlboro County Sheriff’s Office to gather more information about the circumstances leading up to the shooting, and they have also requested support from the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) crime scene team. These agencies are collaborating to understand what happened and to determine next steps in the investigation.
At this stage, authorities have not released details about any possible suspects or arrests. Law enforcement leaders have stressed that the investigation is active and that officials are examining all available evidence, including witness statements and physical data from the scene.
Community members who may have information related to the incident — such as observations from around the time of the shooting or footage from nearby cameras — are encouraged to contact investigators. Tips from the public can be an important part of building a clearer understanding of what occurred.
The loss of a young life has understandably saddened those in and around the Bennettsville community. Neighbours, friends, and acquaintances of Harrington have expressed their grief and extended condolences to his family. Officials and community leaders alike have underscored the importance of supporting one another through difficult moments like this.
In the wake of the shooting, the Marlboro County Sheriff’s Office and local law enforcement are reminding residents about the importance of community safety and cooperation with police during investigations. They also urge residents to remain calm and to rely on official updates from law enforcement as more details become available.
Police departments and emergency services often work closely to respond to violent incidents and to provide support for victims’ families. In this case, first responders were on the scene quickly after the shooting was reported, and community resources remain available to anyone affected by the tragedy.
Officials say they plan to release additional information as the investigation progresses and as appropriate for public safety. They have not indicated any specific threats to the wider community related to this incident, and they continue to encourage anyone with relevant information to contact law enforcement.
This incident is part of a broader conversation about public safety and community well‑being in cities and towns across the region. Residents and local leaders alike are reminded that preventing violence and supporting healing in the aftermath of tragedy are shared goals that benefit everyone.
For now, authorities are focused on understanding the full circumstances of the shooting and offering assistance to Harrington’s loved ones as they mourn his loss.
