Conway Police Arrest Two Men, Search for Additional Suspects in Connection with Deadly Mass Shooting on April 13
Conway, SC — Conway authorities have confirmed the arrests of two men in connection with a deadly mass shooting that occurred on April 13, 2025. The arrests were announced in a press conference held by the Conway Police Department, offering a glimpse into the ongoing investigation that continues to unravel the details of what police describe as a “senseless act of violence” that has shaken the community.
The shooting took place in the early hours of April 13, when gunfire erupted in the 200 block of Elm Street, a residential area just south of downtown Conway. Emergency responders were called to the scene shortly before 2:00 AM, following reports of multiple gunshots. Upon arrival, officers found four victims with gunshot wounds. Tragically, one of the victims, 28-year-old Marcus Rivera, was pronounced dead at the scene. The other three victims, ranging in age from 22 to 30, were rushed to the hospital with serious but non-life-threatening injuries. They are all currently recovering in stable condition.
Witnesses at the scene reported seeing several individuals fleeing the area in the aftermath of the shooting, leading police to launch an extensive search for the suspects. According to Conway Police Chief Rachel Simmons, two men, identified as 32-year-old Derrick Thompson and 27-year-old Elijah Harris, were arrested and charged with first-degree murder, attempted murder, and several counts of aggravated assault. Thompson and Harris were taken into custody at separate locations in Conway on the evening of April 19. Both men are being held at the Horry County Detention Center without bond as the investigation continues.
However, authorities have confirmed that two additional suspects remain at large. Police have released descriptions of the two individuals and are asking anyone with information about their whereabouts to come forward. The suspects are described as being in their late twenties to early thirties, with one wearing a distinctive red hoodie and the other sporting a black baseball cap. Investigators believe the shooting may have been the result of a gang-related dispute, but they have not ruled out other possible motives.
“We are working tirelessly to bring all involved parties to justice,” Chief Simmons stated during the press conference. “The violence that occurred on April 13 has deeply impacted this community, and we are committed to ensuring that those responsible are held accountable. We continue to ask for the public’s assistance in locating the remaining suspects and preventing further violence.”
The deadly shooting has left the Conway community in a state of fear and uncertainty. Residents expressed their concerns over the escalating violence in the area, which has seen an uptick in shootings and other violent crimes in recent months. Local leaders, including Mayor Teresa Cole, have emphasized the need for increased community engagement and law enforcement presence to address the growing safety concerns.
“We are a close-knit community, and this kind of violence is not something we’re used to,” Mayor Cole said in an interview following the arrests. “We must come together as a city to ensure that our neighborhoods are safe and that our young people have the resources and support they need to make better choices.”
In the wake of the shooting, Conway has seen an outpouring of support from local organizations, including the Conway Ministerial Association and several youth outreach programs, who have been organizing meetings and events to promote peace and unity in the community. These efforts aim to offer a sense of hope and healing in the aftermath of the tragedy.
The shooting has also raised concerns about the rise of gang activity in the region. According to law enforcement sources, gang-related violence has been increasing in recent years, with several recent incidents being linked to turf wars and other criminal activities. The police department has stated that they are intensifying their efforts to combat gang violence through a combination of proactive patrols, intelligence gathering, and collaboration with federal agencies.
“We cannot let this senseless violence define our city,” said Chief Simmons. “We are committed to keeping Conway safe, but we need the help of the community. If you see something, say something. Together, we can make a difference.”
As the search for the remaining suspects continues, authorities are urging anyone with information to contact the Conway Police Department at (843) 248-1790 or Crime Stoppers at 1-888-CRIME-SC. Tipsters can remain anonymous and may be eligible for a cash reward for information leading to an arrest.
This tragic incident underscores the urgency of addressing violence in Conway and ensuring that residents feel safe in their homes and neighborhoods. With two suspects behind bars and two still on the run, the community remains hopeful that justice will be served and that the families affected by this devastating event can begin to heal.