Rock Hill, October 16, 2025
News Summary
A tragic incident in Rock Hill has led to a 15-year-old boy being charged with involuntary manslaughter after he accidentally shot his 14-year-old neighbor, Braylen Jackson, with a stolen firearm. The shooting occurred while the boy was showing off the gun to friends. The victim later died from his injuries, prompting charges including several weapons violations. The accused remains in custody as the court proceedings unfold, with both families expressing strong emotions regarding the incident.
Rock Hill
A 15-year-old boy in Rock Hill has been charged with involuntary manslaughter for shooting his 14-year-old neighbor, Braylen Jackson, in the face with a stolen gun. The tragic incident occurred on September 25, when the boy was reportedly playing with the stolen weapon before the shooting took place.
Braylen Jackson succumbed to injuries resulting from the shooting, prompting local authorities to intervene and charge the accused. The boy now faces a series of serious charges, including involuntary manslaughter, breaking into a neighbor’s car to steal the gun, and various weapons violations.
Prosecutors have suggested that the shooting was reckless rather than premeditated, highlighting the potentially dangerous implications of the boy’s actions. During a court hearing, Visiting Judge Marcelo Torricos determined that the accused should remain in custody at the South Carolina Department of Juvenile Justice while proceedings progress, emphasizing the need for the boy to “think about his actions.” Judge Torricos noted that this ruling should not be viewed as punitive but rather in the best interests of the accused.
Initially, the boy claimed that Braylen had shot himself; however, a witness to the incident who has not been named contradicted this account. Prior to the shooting, the boy reportedly displayed the stolen Glock handgun to friends, seeking to “show off” and engage in what was described as “posturing.”
The grief-stricken family of Braylen Jackson has vocally opposed any requests for the boy’s release, expressing outrage and frustration over the recklessness that led to their child’s tragic death. In contrast, the boy’s mother has argued for his release, expressing sympathy for her son, stating that he is still a child and that the incident was a result of immaturity.
The accused’s attorney, Joshua Brown, highlighted that the boy has no previous criminal record and expressed concerns regarding his mental health should he remain in juvenile detention. The attorney proposed an alternative placement at a family member’s home with appropriate supervision instead of continued detention.
In court, Braylen’s family articulated their profound grief, underscoring the tragedy of losing a child and criticizing any attempts to obtain mental health treatment for the accused after the incident. Family court Judge Chad Smith acknowledged the significant loss experienced by Braylen’s loved ones and the broader implications of gun violence occurring within the community.
The accused remains in custody at the juvenile detention facility in Columbia as the legal proceedings continue, with options for reviewing his detention status anticipated in upcoming hearings.
Summary of Key Points
- A 15-year-old boy charged with involuntary manslaughter for shooting his 14-year-old neighbor.
- The incident occurred on September 25; the victim died from his injuries.
- Prosecutors emphasize reckless behavior, with multiple charges against the accused.
- Judge ruled that the boy should remain in custody as the case progresses.
- Braylen’s family opposes the boy’s release, asserting the need for accountability.
FAQ Section
What charges has the 15-year-old boy faced in Rock Hill?
The boy has been charged with involuntary manslaughter, breaking into a neighbor’s car to steal the gun, and various weapons violations.
What was the reason for the boy’s detention?
Visiting Judge Marcelo Torricos ruled that the boy should remain in detention while the case moves forward, stating the need for him to “think about his actions.”
How did Braylen Jackson’s family respond to the incident?
Braylen’s family strongly opposed any requests for the boy’s release, expressing outrage and asserting that his actions were reckless and dangerous.
Key Features of the Incident
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Incident Date | September 25 |
| Charges Against the Accused | Involuntary manslaughter, breaking into neighbor’s car, weapons violations |
| Victim | Braylen Jackson, age 14 |
| Accused’s Age | 15 years old |
| Custody Location | South Carolina Department of Juvenile Justice |
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Additional Resources
- Herald Online: Rock Hill Shooting Incident
- WCNC: Third Suspect in Rock Hill Shooting Turns Himself In
- WCCB Charlotte: Police Search for Suspects After Shooting
- WSOC TV: Suspect Arrested in Fatal Rock Hill Shooting
- WBTV: Jury Convicts Rock Hill Man in Lancaster Shooting
- Wikipedia: Gun Violence
- Google Search: Rock Hill shootings
- Google Scholar: Rock Hill crime
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Gun Control
- Google News: Rock Hill
Author: STAFF HERE ROCK HILL
The ROCK HILL STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERERockHill.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Rock Hill, York 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 Come-See-Me Festival, Rock Hill Arts Festival, and motorsport events at the Rock Hill Velodrome. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Rock Hill Chamber of Commerce and the Culture & Heritage Museums, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and technology that power the local economy such as 3D Systems and Comporium. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
