Tragic Shooting in Marion County, South Carolina: 16-Year-Old Kaiden Allen Among Two Killed, Two Others Injured
MARION COUNTY, SC — A tragic act of gun violence has left the Marion County community devastated after a shooting on Thursday evening, May 29, 2025, resulted in the deaths of two young individuals and injuries to two others. The incident took place just after 7:20 p.m. on Tubello Court, a residential area in the heart of the county.
According to the Marion County Sheriff’s Office, deputies were dispatched to Tubello Court at approximately 7:21 p.m. following multiple 911 calls reporting the sound of gunfire. When law enforcement arrived on the scene, they found a chaotic and heartbreaking scene: four victims, all suffering from gunshot wounds, lying in and around the area near a residential driveway.
One of the victims was tragically identified as 16-year-old Kaiden Allen, a local teen known for his bright smile and warm presence at school and in the community. Despite lifesaving efforts by first responders, Kaiden succumbed to his injuries on the scene. A second male victim, whose identity has not yet been publicly released pending notification of family members, was also pronounced dead shortly after arrival at a nearby hospital.
Two additional individuals, whose conditions have not been fully disclosed, were transported to medical facilities in critical but stable condition. Authorities say their injuries, while serious, are not currently believed to be life-threatening. The victims’ identities and ages have not been officially released for the surviving individuals.
The scene was quickly secured by deputies, and crime scene investigators began combing the area for evidence late into the night. Tubello Court was closed off to the public for several hours as investigators collected shell casings, canvassed for witnesses, and reviewed footage from any nearby surveillance cameras.
Community in Shock
The shooting has left residents of Marion County in deep shock and mourning. Friends, family members, and neighbors gathered near the scene Thursday night, many in tears and disbelief. “Kaiden was a sweet boy,” said one local woman who identified herself as a family friend. “He didn’t deserve this. No one does. He had his whole life ahead of him.”
Counselors and grief support teams were dispatched to area schools Friday morning to assist students and staff grappling with the loss. Kaiden Allen, a junior at Marion High School, was remembered by teachers as respectful, hardworking, and kind-hearted. “This is a terrible loss,” one teacher said. “We are heartbroken.”
Investigation Underway
Sheriff Brian Wallace of the Marion County Sheriff’s Office issued a statement late Thursday evening, expressing condolences to the families of the victims and promising a thorough investigation. “Our hearts are heavy tonight. We are doing everything we can to find those responsible for this senseless act of violence and bring them to justice,” Wallace said.
Detectives are working around the clock to determine the circumstances that led to the shooting. While the motive remains unclear, authorities have not ruled out the possibility that the shooting may be connected to an ongoing dispute or gang activity, though no official confirmation has been made.
Officials are urging anyone with information about the shooting to come forward. Anonymous tips can be submitted to the Marion County Sheriff’s Office or through Crime Stoppers of the Pee Dee. “Even the smallest piece of information could help solve this case,” Wallace added.
Call for Action
The incident marks one of the deadliest acts of gun violence in Marion County in recent months and reignites urgent conversations about community safety, youth violence, and gun access. Local leaders and advocacy groups are calling for increased investment in youth programs, conflict resolution initiatives, and greater law enforcement presence in high-risk areas.
“This is a wake-up call,” said Rev. Terrell Johnson, a local pastor who has worked with at-risk youth in the community. “We are losing too many of our young people to violence. We must come together as a community to stop this cycle.”
Memorials and Tributes Planned
As the investigation continues, loved ones of Kaiden Allen and the second deceased victim are beginning to plan memorials in their honor. A candlelight vigil is being organized for Saturday night at the Marion County Courthouse lawn, where community members will gather to mourn, reflect, and support one another during this incredibly painful time.
More details on funeral arrangements for Kaiden and the other victim will be released by the families in the coming days.
Anyone with information related to this shooting is urged to contact the Marion County Sheriff’s Office at (843) 423-8399 or submit tips anonymously via Crime Stoppers at 1-888-CRIME-SC.
This story will be updated as more information becomes available.