Juneteenth Celebration Turns Tragic: 18-Year-Old Arrested for Murder After Mass Shooting Claims Life of Laporshia Cobb in Anderson County

ANDERSON COUNTY, S.C. — What began as a vibrant Juneteenth celebration meant to honor freedom and unity ended in heartbreak for the Anderson County community, as a mass shooting shattered the evening’s festivities. The deadly incident, which occurred late Saturday night along Scarborough Road, claimed the life of Laporshia Cobb, a beloved member of the community, and left nine others injured.

Authorities now say that 18-year-old Tiyelle Rakelle Demon Hollings has been arrested and formally charged in connection with the shooting. Hollings faces charges of murder and possession of a weapon during a violent crime, according to the Anderson County Sheriff’s Office.

The gunfire erupted just after 11 p.m. during what officials described as a large street party attended by several hundred people. According to witnesses, a fight broke out among a group of individuals before shots rang out, sending attendees scrambling for cover and chaos erupting in the quiet neighborhood.

First responders arrived to find multiple victims suffering from gunshot wounds, scattered across the area. Laporshia Cobb, who was attending the event with friends, was pronounced dead at the scene. The injured victims—whose ages and identities have not been fully released—were transported to nearby hospitals. Some remain in critical condition, authorities said.

Hollings was taken into custody following an intensive investigation by the Anderson County Sheriff’s Office, which involved witness interviews, forensic analysis, and community tips. While investigators have not released details about a motive, they believe the shooting stemmed from the altercation that quickly escalated to gun violence.

The arrest offers a degree of closure, but deep sorrow remains for Cobb’s grieving family and the larger Anderson County community, who are struggling to comprehend the tragedy that unfolded during what was supposed to be a joyous celebration of freedom and African-American heritage.

“This should have been a night of unity, remembrance, and celebration,” said Sheriff Chad McBride in a Sunday news briefing. “Instead, it became a moment of unimaginable tragedy. Our hearts are with the Cobb family and all the victims impacted by this senseless act of violence.”

Community leaders have spoken out, calling for an end to the cycle of gun violence that continues to impact families across South Carolina. Vigils and memorials are now being planned to honor Laporshia Cobb’s life and legacy.

Meanwhile, Tiyelle Hollings remains in custody at the Anderson County Detention Center. No bond has been set, and he is expected to appear in court for a preliminary hearing in the coming days.

The sheriff’s office is continuing to gather evidence and interview witnesses. Anyone who may have captured video footage from the scene or who has additional information is urged to contact the Anderson County Sheriff’s Office or submit tips anonymously to Crime Stoppers at 1-888-CRIME-SC.

As the investigation unfolds, the community mourns the loss of a life taken too soon and prays for the recovery of those injured in the shooting.