James Island Shooting: Charleston County Authorities Investigate Fatal Police-Involved Shooting Connected to Montego Bay Incident
Charleston County officials are investigating a fatal police-involved shooting on James Island after authorities confirmed that a man was killed during an encounter with officers on November 20, 2025. The incident, which unfolded during an active police response, has drawn significant public attention as investigators work to determine the full circumstances surrounding the shooting. Officials also noted emerging connections to a separate incident in Montego Bay, St. James, where a man was fatally shot during an alleged exchange of gunfire at the Old Arcade.
According to preliminary reports in Charleston County, officers confronted a man believed to be armed during an ongoing operation in a residential section of James Island. Law enforcement responded after receiving information linked to an individual reportedly involved in interstate and international criminal activity. When officers attempted to make contact, the man allegedly displayed a weapon, prompting police to engage. He was fatally shot at the scene. No officers were injured during the encounter.
Authorities stated that the victim’s identity will be released after proper family notification. Detectives also emphasized that body camera footage, officer statements, and physical evidence are being reviewed as part of standard investigative protocol. Charleston County officials noted that the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) has been called in to conduct an independent inquiry, which is customary in cases involving officer-involved shootings.
The investigation gained further complexity as officials in Montego Bay, Jamaica, confirmed a related shooting at the Old Arcade in St. James. During that incident, a man was fatally shot by Jamaican police officers during what authorities described as an alleged shoot-out. Limited information has been released, and local investigators continue processing the scene while gathering witness accounts.
Law enforcement sources indicated that the two incidents may be connected through ongoing criminal investigations that span multiple jurisdictions. However, authorities have not confirmed whether the individuals involved are linked or whether the cases intersect through shared intelligence. Both agencies stressed that details remain preliminary, and additional information will be released only when verified.
Community members in Charleston County expressed concern following the James Island shooting, citing the need for transparency and timely communication. Local leaders acknowledged the community’s frustration and urged the public to allow investigators the necessary time to complete forensic analysis and review officer actions. Officials noted that critical updates will be made public in accordance with state guidelines.
Public safety advocates continue calling for measured dialogue, emphasizing the importance of maintaining trust between law enforcement and the communities they serve. The Charleston County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that officers involved in the shooting have been placed on administrative leave pending the outcome of the investigation, which follows established departmental procedures.
In Montego Bay, the St. James police division remains on heightened alert as they continue to gather evidence at the Old Arcade. Authorities have maintained a security perimeter while processing the location and interviewing witnesses who were present during the alleged exchange of gunfire. Jamaican investigators stated that their findings will be forwarded to oversight bodies responsible for reviewing police actions in fatal encounters.
Both investigations remain active, and officials in Charleston County and Montego Bay are urging anyone with relevant information to come forward. As communities in both regions await further clarity, authorities reiterate that updates will be provided as soon as they are appropriate, confirmed, and aligned with investigative standards.