Teen Charged with Five Counts of Attempted Murder Following Multiple Shooting Incidents in Laurens County

Teen Faces 5 Attempted Murder Charges After Second Shooting Incident, Deputies Say

Laurens County, S.C. — An 18-year-old named Jay Taylor is facing multiple serious charges following his alleged involvement in two separate shooting incidents, according to the Laurens County Sheriff’s Office.

The first incident took place on August 27 at a Citgo gas station located on Highway 72 in Cross Hill. Authorities say that Taylor reportedly shot a man in the back during this event. In a bond court hearing, Taylor expressed regret, stating he “didn’t want it to go down like that.”

While investigating the gas station shooting, deputies linked Taylor to another shooting incident that happened on August 26. This involved shots being fired into a home on West Calhoun Street in Joanna, where four people were present inside at the time. Fortunately, no one was injured. However, Sheriff Don Reynolds strongly condemned Taylor’s behavior.

“The actions exhibited by this individual is of a thug who had the dangerous potential to murder someone with his reckless actions,” Sheriff Reynolds said. “It is my hope that the court system will give him plenty of time to think about his actions. Thank you to the deputies and investigators who worked quickly and diligently on both cases.”

Taylor now faces multiple charges, including:

• Attempted murder x5
• Breach of Peace, Aggravated x2
• Discharging a Firearm into a Dwelling
• Discharging a Firearm into an Occupied Building
• Possession of a Weapon During a Violent Crime x2
• Malicious Injury to Property, more than $2,000
• Malicious Injury to Property, less than $2000
• Armed Robbery
• Concealable Weapons Offense

During a second bond hearing held on Friday afternoon, Taylor was once again denied bond, keeping him in custody as judicial proceedings continue.

Community Awareness

These incidents have caused ripples of concern throughout Laurens County, with residents expressing their worries and the need for increased safety measures. Local authorities have reassured the public that they are taking every necessary step to investigate and prosecute such crimes, aiming to maintain peace and security in the community.

To the concerned citizens, the Sheriff’s Office offered their gratitude for ongoing support and cooperation. “Your vigilance and quick reporting help us act swiftly and protect our neighborhoods,” a spokesperson from the department stated.

Background Actions and Statements

Deputies credited their successful linking of Taylor to both incidents to collaborative efforts and timely action. The Sheriff acknowledged the hard work of his team, saying, “The deputies and investigators worked quickly and diligently, ensuring these dangerous actions were addressed promptly.”

Local officials urge everyone to stay alert and report any suspicious activities to law enforcement agencies to prevent future incidents.

Looking Forward

Taylor’s case will enter the preliminary court stages where more evidence will be presented, and further testimonies will be heard. Community members are closely watching these developments, hoping justice will be served, and collective safety assured.

The charges laid upon Taylor emphasize the severity of his alleged actions. As legal proceedings unfurl, Laurens County’s law enforcement agencies are doubling down on efforts to curb such incidents, advocating for stringent legal repercussions for criminal behaviors.

The Sheriff’s Office has also emphasized that anyone with additional information regarding the incidents should come forward, ensuring all angles of the case are thoroughly investigated.

Updates on future court dates and proceedings will be available as the case progresses, keeping the community informed and engaged in following the rule of law.

Conclusion

This case highlights the critical importance of community cooperation and swift judicial action in addressing violent crimes. Laurens County remains vigilant, with its residents and authorities collectively working towards a safer environment for all.