Darlington County, SC | November 2025-A quiet stretch of Piano Road turned into the scene of tragedy on Monday afternoon when Chandler Martin, a 21-year-old from Florence, was shot and killed in a shocking incident near the intersection of Piano Road and South Charleston Road in Darlington County. The community is left reeling from the loss of a young man whose life was taken far too soon.
What Happened: The Tragic Shooting
At approximately 2 p.m. on Monday, November 10, 2025, deputies from the Darlington County Sheriff’s Office responded to reports of shots fired in the area. Upon arriving at the scene, they found Chandler Martin suffering from fatal gunshot wounds. Coroner Todd Hardee arrived shortly after and pronounced Martin dead at the scene.
Initial reports from the Darlington County Sheriff’s Office indicate that the shooting appears to be an isolated incident, with no immediate threat to the public. The circumstances and motive behind the attack remain unclear, and investigators are actively working to piece together what led to the tragic event.
Who Was Chandler Martin: A Life Cut Short
Chandler Martin was a young man full of promise, known by his family, friends, and community for his warmth, character, and ambition. A resident of Florence, Chandler was remembered as someone with a bright future ahead of him—his life was tragically cut short in what authorities believe to be a targeted attack.
Family members, friends, and loved ones are left grappling with the grief of losing a young man whose future was suddenly stolen. They recall Chandler as a person who brought joy to those around him, with a heart full of kindness and a spirit that brightened any room he entered.
The Investigation: Seeking Answers
While the investigation remains ongoing, Sheriff Michael August and his team are working diligently to understand the full scope of the incident. Authorities are conducting interviews, gathering evidence, and piecing together witness accounts to determine who is responsible for this senseless act.
An autopsy is scheduled to take place later this week in order to determine the exact cause and time of death. Investigators have not yet identified a suspect or made any arrests, but they remain committed to bringing justice to Chandler’s family and community.
Public Support: A Call for Information
SLED (South Carolina Law Enforcement Division) and the Darlington County Sheriff’s Office have called on the public for help. Authorities are asking anyone with information about the shooting or any potential leads to come forward. The cooperation of the community is vital to solving this case, as law enforcement works to bring the responsible party to justice.
“We know this is an isolated incident, but we ask the public to remain vigilant and report any unusual activity or information that could help our investigation,” stated the Sheriff’s Office.
Community Mourns the Loss
As the investigation unfolds, the community of Darlington County is left to mourn the loss of Chandler Martin, a young man whose life was tragically cut short. Friends and family are remembering Chandler for his kind heart, sense of humor, and the warmth he brought to every interaction. His loss serves as a stark reminder of how fragile life is, and how quickly everything can change in the blink of an eye.
Chandler Martin’s untimely death has shaken his community, and as they await justice, they are united in grief and remembrance. The family of Chandler Martin has asked for privacy during this difficult time, while also expressing their gratitude for the outpouring of support from the community.
Next Steps and Memorial
As the investigation continues, the community holds onto hope that the perpetrator will be brought to justice. Details on a memorial service or funeral arrangements for Chandler Martin will be released as the family prepares to honor his life.
This story is not only one of loss but also a call for justice and remembrance. Chandler Martin may no longer be with us, but his memory will live on in the hearts of those who loved him.
This story may be updated with more information as it becomes available.
