WILLIAMSBURG COUNTY, S.C. — A tragic shooting in Williamsburg County has led to the arrest of a 19-year-old Hemingway resident, following a deadly altercation at a local apartment complex that claimed the life of an innocent bystander.
According to the Williamsburg County Sheriff’s Office, Dontavius McCal Mills Jr., 19, has been arrested and charged with murder and possession of a weapon during a violent crime. Investigator Jalisa Brown confirmed Mills Jr. was taken into custody with assistance from the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) after he voluntarily turned himself in on Monday.
The incident occurred on April 26 at the Hemingway Apartments on Daisy Lane. Deputies responded to the scene after receiving reports of gunfire in the area. Upon arrival, they discovered a victim lying in the parking lot, suffering from a gunshot wound. Emergency medical responders from Williamsburg County EMS rushed to the scene and attempted life-saving measures, but the victim tragically succumbed to their injuries.
Investigators say a confrontation had broken out among several individuals in the parking lot, including Mills Jr. During the dispute, a firearm was discharged, and a bullet struck the victim. Authorities later confirmed that the victim was not involved in the altercation and had simply been in the vicinity at the time of the shooting—an unintended and heartbreaking casualty.
The name of the victim has not yet been released publicly, pending notification of next of kin.
The sheriff’s office noted that Mills Jr. was identified during the initial stages of the investigation and coordinated with SLED agents before surrendering. His cooperation with law enforcement allowed the case to move forward quickly and without further incident.
In addition to the Williamsburg County Sheriff’s Office and SLED, multiple agencies responded to the chaotic scene, including the Williamsburg County Fire Department, Johnsonville Rescue, the South Carolina Highway Patrol, and the Hemingway Police Department. Their combined efforts helped secure the area, provide medical support, and launch a coordinated investigation.
“This was a senseless act of violence that took the life of someone who had no part in the dispute,” said one official familiar with the case. “We are committed to seeing justice served for the victim and their family.”
The shooting has sparked renewed concern in the community about safety in and around local apartment complexes, especially regarding youth violence and the accessibility of firearms. Local leaders and law enforcement officials are urging residents to come forward with any additional information and to work with authorities in fostering a safer environment for all.
Mills Jr. remains in custody as he awaits a bond hearing. Prosecutors have not yet announced whether additional charges may be filed.
The investigation remains ongoing. Anyone with further information is encouraged to contact the Williamsburg County Sheriff’s Office or submit tips anonymously through Crime Stoppers.
