Aiken Community Reels from Recent Shooting Death

News Summary

The small town of Aiken, South Carolina, is in shock following the recent shooting death of William Lee Mathis Jr. Two arrests have been made, including a 17-year-old, Tristen Jersey McCarty, who is facing charges as an accessory to the crime. Authorities continue to investigate the tragic incident, which has raised significant safety concerns among local residents. The community is grappling with the implications of the violence that has touched their lives, urging cooperation in restoring peace.

Aiken Community Reels from Recent Shooting Death

In the quiet town of Aiken, South Carolina, the shocking aftermath of a September shooting has led to another arrest. Just recently, authorities apprehended 17-year-old Tristen Jersey McCarty from nearby Trenton in connection with the tragic death of 42-year-old William Lee Mathis Jr.. This marks the second arrest tied to this heartbreaking incident that unfolded on a cool evening in September.

Timeline of Events

The shooting happened late at night on September 18, 2024, around 10:30 p.m.. Responding to a report of gunfire on Columbia Avenue Northeast, law enforcement discovered Mathis wounded. Despite their efforts, he was declared dead shortly after arriving at the hospital at 11:13 p.m..

Details of the Arrests

The investigation soon led to the arrest of the first suspect, 22-year-old Sabastyen Miles Greene, a resident of Aiken, in December 2024. Greene faces serious charges including murder and possession of a weapon during a crime. As for McCarty, who was captured on January 8, 2025, he is facing charges as an accessory to the murder, both before and after the fact. Currently, no bond has been set for him.

What Happened that Night?

According to available information, McCarty was behind the wheel of a white 2000 Ford Explorer, driving Greene before the critical events that led to the shooting. In a disturbing turn, it’s alleged that Greene attempted to rob Mathis while he was riding his bicycle. During an altercation, Greene reportedly shot Mathis in the chest, setting off a tragic chain of events that left the community in shock.

Aiken’s Response

Both suspects are now being held at the Aiken County Detention Center. The area where the shooting occurred, near Chesterfield Street and Columbia Avenue, is notably close to Aiken High School, raising significant concerns among local residents about safety and the need for community vigilance.

Ongoing Investigation

As of now, the investigation into Mathis’s death continues, with authorities urging anyone who may have information regarding the incident to reach out to the Aiken Department of Public Safety. Luckily, no other injuries were reported during the chaos of that night, but the loss of life has left a heavy cloud over the town.

Community Concerns

The Aiken community is grappling with the implications of this tragedy. Residents are understandably concerned about safety and the nature of violence that has touched their lives. With two arrests made, residents hope this brings a measure of closure, yet the sorrow of loss hangs high. The story of William Lee Mathis Jr. serves as a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities present, even in peaceful locales like Aiken.

As law enforcement continues to dig deeper into the circumstances around the shooting, they have emphasized the critical importance of community cooperation in their efforts to restore peace and security.

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

• WRDW: Police arrest 2nd suspect in Aiken murder case
• Google Search: Aiken shooting 2024
• WFXG: Second arrest made in connection to 2024 Aiken shooting
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Aiken, South Carolina
• Post and Courier: Aiken County Sheriff child shooting death
• Google News: Aiken shooter
• WRDW: Aiken County shaken by 2 child shootings in 24 hours
• Google Scholar: Aiken crime shooting
• The Augusta Press: Shooting in Aiken leaves one dead