Tragic Shooting of Rock Hill High School Freshman

News Summary

A heartbreaking incident in Rock Hill, South Carolina, has led to the involuntary manslaughter charge against a 15-year-old following the shooting death of 14-year-old Braylen Jackson. The incident occurred while Braylen was with the suspect in an apartment, where a mishandled firearm resulted in a fatal gunshot wound. Braylen, an aspiring football player, is mourned by his family and community, prompting discussions on youth safety and gun management.

Rock Hill, South Carolina – A 15-year-old has been charged with involuntary manslaughter in the tragic shooting death of 14-year-old Braylen Jackson, a freshman at Rock Hill High School. Braylen was aspiring to play football at Louisiana State University before his untimely death, an event his family has described as an unexpected tragedy.

The incident occurred at an apartment on Springsteen Road around 1 p.m. on September 25, where Braylen and the 15-year-old suspect were together when the firearm was mishandled. Law enforcement found Braylen with a single gunshot wound and pronounced him dead at the scene. The firearm involved was reported to be stolen.

After the incident, the 15-year-old suspect was arrested and is currently in the custody of the Department of Juvenile Justice. The situation has left Braylen’s family devastated, particularly his older sister, who expressed that the family’s life has been changed forever. She emphasized that Braylen should not be viewed negatively due to the circumstances surrounding his death and highlighted that the tragedy was unexpected.

In response to the incident, Rock Hill High Interim Principal Buddy King sent a letter to families, addressing the profound loss experienced by the school community. He noted that support services are available for students affected by this tragedy. Counselors have been made available at Rock Hill High School to support students, staff, and families during this difficult time.

Braylen’s family has initiated a GoFundMe campaign seeking approximately $12,000 to cover funeral costs, expressing the need for support in light of their loss. Braylen’s joyful spirit and ability to make others laugh have been fondly remembered by his family.

Rock Hill Schools confirmed Braylen as a student at Rock Hill High and expressed their sorrow for his loss, reaffirming their commitment to support the school community during this heart-wrenching time.

Background Context

Braylen Jackson, at just 14 years old, had dreams and aspirations that extended beyond his time in high school, aiming for a future in collegiate football. His unexpected death has raised questions about gun safety and the implications of firearm mishandling among young individuals.

The tragedy has not only affected Braylen’s family but also rippled throughout the larger Rock Hill community, prompting discussions on the importance of supporting one another and raising awareness about the serious issue of youth safety regarding firearms.

Key Facts

• Incident Date: September 25
• Victim: Braylen Jackson, 14 years old
• Suspect: 15 years old, charged with involuntary manslaughter
• Location: Apartment on Springsteen Road
• Response: GoFundMe campaign set up for funeral costs
• Counseling services available for affected students
• School’s interim principal addressing community impact

FAQ

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Additional Resources

• Herald Online: Rock Hill Shooting Incident
• WCNC: Grieving Rock Hill Family
• WBTV: 15-Year-Old Accused in Rock Hill Shooting
• QC News: Rock Hill Teen Charged with Manslaughter
• Wikipedia: Gun Violence in the United States
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Gun Control

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.