News Summary
The Spartanburg Police Department is investigating the homicide of Rah’eim Taree Kelly, a 15-year-old boy, who was shot early Friday morning on Bethel Street. Found dead from a gunshot wound, Kelly’s tragic death has shocked the local community. Authorities are calling for public assistance in identifying the suspects, last seen fleeing the area after multiple gunshots were heard. The investigation continues as officials emphasize the importance of community vigilance in addressing youth safety and gun violence.
Spartanburg, South Carolina – The Spartanburg Police Department is investigating the homicide of a 15-year-old male following an early morning shooting on Bethel Street. The victim, identified as Rah’eim Taree Kelly, was found dead after suffering a gunshot wound to the right side of his upper torso.
Police received a call regarding the shooting at approximately 4:40 a.m. on Friday. Upon arrival, officers discovered a trail of blood leading to the second floor of a residence, where Kelly was located. Despite immediate medical attention, he was pronounced dead after being transported to Spartanburg Regional Medical Center.
Witnesses reported hearing multiple gunshots just before the incident and saw two individuals fleeing the area. The suspects were last seen running toward the intersection of Promised Land Drive and Kensington Drive. As a result, law enforcement has classified this incident as isolated but is actively seeking additional information from the public to assist in the investigation.
Authorities are conducting a thorough canvass of the area to look for any potential evidence and surveillance footage that could aid in identifying the suspects. The Spartanburg County Sheriff’s Office is separately investigating an unrelated incident involving a gunshot wound victim found in the Linville Hills Park area the same evening.
Officials have stressed the heart-wrenching nature of this incident given the victim’s young age, calling for community support in solving this tragic crime. They urge anyone with information to reach out to the Spartanburg Police Department at 864-596-2065.
Details of the Incident
The shooting occurred early Friday morning, and police responded to the distress call just before dawn. Upon their arrival, they observed a visible trail of blood that led them to the location of Kelly’s body. Investigators confirmed that the victim sustained significant injuries from a gunshot wound.
Community Response and Investigation
The Spartanburg community is rallying around the tragic loss of the young victim. Neighbors and local residents have expressed their shock and concern over the violence that has erupted in their neighborhood. Law enforcement officials are appealing for anyone who witnessed the shooting or has distinctive information about the fleeing suspects to come forward.
Police have intensified their efforts by working with local organizations to ensure a thorough investigation. The Spartanburg County Sheriff’s Office involvement in a corresponding investigation highlights the urgent need for collective community vigilance to enhance safety and bring justice to the victim and his family.
Background Context
The homicide of Rah’eim Taree Kelly has stirred sentiments in Spartanburg, a community that has been increasingly concerned about the rise of gun violence. This tragic event forms part of a larger conversation regarding youth safety and the impacts of gun-related crimes on local families. As authorities gather evidence and pursue leads, they continue to seek the public’s help in uncovering the circumstances surrounding this heartbreaking incident.
Community leaders emphasize the importance of supporting investigations such as these, working towards preventing further violence, and restoring peace and safety in neighborhoods.
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Additional Resources
- Fox Carolina: Shooting Victim Asks for Help
- Wikipedia: Spartanburg County, South Carolina
- WSPA: Spartanburg Co. Deputies Investigating Shooting
- Google Search: Spartanburg County shooting
- WYFF: Trail of Blood Leads to Shooting Victim
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Gun Violence
- Fox Carolina: Vigil Held for Teen Killed in Spartanburg Shooting
- Google News: Teen Shooting Spartanburg
Author: STAFF HERE SPARTANBURG
The SPARTANBURG STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERESpartanburg.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Spartanburg, Spartanburg 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 Spartanburg International Festival, Spartanburg ArtWalk, and motorsport events at Spartanburg Speedway. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Spartanburg Area Chamber of Commerce and the Spartanburg Regional Healthcare System Foundation, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and textiles that power the local economy such as BMW Manufacturing and Milliken & Company. 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.
