Tragedy at Pageland Watermelon Festival: 17-Year-Old Sean Davis Fatally Shot
Pageland, S.C. — A night of summer celebration turned into heartbreak during Pageland’s annual Watermelon Festival on Friday when gunfire erupted near a crowded intersection, killing 17-year-old Sean Davis and leaving the community in shock.
The shooting occurred at approximately 10:41 p.m. at the intersection of McGregor and South Pearl Street—just steps from the Pageland Police Department’s security tent and within yards of Chesterfield County Sheriff’s deputies assigned to the event.
Witnesses described chaotic scenes as panicked festivalgoers fled the area. Sean Davis was struck by gunfire during the incident. Emergency crews were dispatched immediately after multiple 911 calls.
Due to the severity of his injuries, a medical helicopter was initially requested to transport Davis from the nearby Pageland Airport to a trauma center. However, given the urgency of his condition, responders opted to rush him by ambulance to a Charlotte hospital. Despite rapid medical intervention, Davis was pronounced dead before reaching the hospital. The Chesterfield County Coroner’s Office officially confirmed his death around midnight.
The South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) took over the investigation shortly after arriving on scene. Crime scene technicians worked into the early morning hours, documenting evidence and reconstructing the shooting.
While no suspect has been publicly identified, investigators discovered a second trail of blood near the initial scene, suggesting the possibility of another victim. Hospitals in the region were reportedly alerted to monitor for patients with gunshot wounds, a standard protocol in active shooting cases.
Pageland Police Chief Dean Short expressed his condolences, stating, “Our hearts go out to the family and loved ones of the young individual whose life was tragically lost. This is a heartbreaking event that deeply impacts our entire community.”
In response to the tragedy, Pageland town officials canceled the remainder of the Watermelon Festival, posting on social media: “Out of respect for the victim and their family, we believe this is the most appropriate course of action. Our hearts and prayers are with all those affected by this senseless act of violence. We thank our community for their understanding and ask everyone to continue supporting one another during this difficult time.”
Authorities are urging anyone with information about the shooting to contact SLED or local law enforcement to assist with the ongoing investigation.