Shawnteza La Shay Sherman Charged with Murder and Attempted Murder After Deadly Shooting on Fleetwood Drive in Greenville; One Child Dead, Another in Critical Condition
GREENVILLE, SC —In a tragic update to yesterday’s shooting in Greenville, local authorities have confirmed that Shawnteza La Shay Sherman, 25, has been arrested and charged with murder and two counts of attempted murder. The charges come after a shooting incident on Fleetwood Drive that has left the community reeling with grief and disbelief.
The violent incident unfolded around 5:30 p.m. on Friday, April 25, when multiple gunshots rang out in the area of 25 Fleetwood Drive, which houses the Belle Meade Apartments. According to the Greenville County Sheriff’s Office, two 5-year-old twins were struck by gunfire. One of the children, a boy, tragically succumbed to his injuries and was pronounced dead at a nearby hospital shortly after the incident. The other twin, a girl, remains in critical condition, fighting for her life.
In addition to the two young children, an 18-year-old victim was also struck during the exchange of gunfire. The 18-year-old, whose identity has not been released, was rushed to the hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. Medical staff have indicated that the victim is expected to recover fully from the ordeal.
Sherman, the primary suspect in the shooting, was taken into custody shortly after the incident, where she was initially detained by law enforcement at the scene. Authorities quickly moved to charge her with one count of murder and two counts of attempted murder in connection with the shooting, though it remains unclear what led to the violent confrontation.
Sheriff Hobart Lewis of the Greenville County Sheriff’s Office stated, “This is a senseless and heartbreaking tragedy, and our thoughts are with the victims and their families. We will do everything in our power to ensure justice is served.”
Sherman, who has a criminal history, was reportedly involved in an ongoing dispute with a group of individuals who were present at the time of the shooting. Law enforcement officials believe the gunfire may have been exchanged between rival groups in what could be a case of gang-related violence, though this aspect of the investigation is still ongoing.
The community of Greenville has been left in shock, as this senseless act of violence has hit especially hard for residents of the Belle Meade Apartments. Neighbors have expressed deep sadness and frustration over the events that transpired. Several residents noted that the children who were injured were well-known in the neighborhood, often seen playing outside or interacting with neighbors. Many have spoken out, calling for increased measures to address gun violence in their community.
“This should never happen, especially not to innocent children,” said a local resident who wished to remain anonymous. “I’m devastated for those poor kids and their family.”
In response to the incident, the Greenville County Sheriff’s Office has vowed to intensify efforts to curb gun violence and investigate the larger context of the shooting. The Sheriff’s Office is asking anyone with information about the events leading up to the shooting to come forward.
Sherman is currently being held in the Greenville County Jail, and it is expected that she will appear in court for an initial hearing in the coming days. As the investigation continues, more details may emerge about the motives behind the shooting and the individuals involved.
Local authorities, including community leaders and activists, have called for increased attention to the issue of gun violence, particularly in high-risk neighborhoods. Many are hoping that this tragedy will be a catalyst for change and a greater focus on gun safety, conflict resolution, and community-building efforts.
The Greenville community is now left to grieve the senseless loss of a child and to support the family of the other young twin as they face a long and uncertain road ahead. The loss of the young child has left an irreplaceable void in the lives of those who loved him, and the city has rallied around the family during this incredibly difficult time.
If you have any information that could assist investigators, please contact the Greenville County Sheriff’s Office at (864) 467-5200 or Crime Stoppers at 1-888-CRIME-SC.