SHOT DEAD IN DRIVEWAY: DEQUON HILL, 27, KILLED IN JACKSON OVERNIGHT Aiken County Community Grieves After Tragic Loss on North Silverton Street

SHOT DEAD IN DRIVEWAY: DEQUON HILL, 27, KILLED IN JACKSON OVERNIGHT
Aiken County Community Grieves After Tragic Loss on North Silverton Street

Jackson, SC — The quiet streets of North Silverton in Jackson were shattered overnight by the piercing sound of gunfire that took the life of 27-year-old Dequon Hill, a beloved member of the Aiken County community. Authorities have confirmed that Hill was fatally shot in the driveway of a home shortly after midnight, prompting an urgent investigation and outpouring of grief from friends, family, and neighbors alike.

According to the Aiken County Sheriff’s Office, deputies responded to multiple reports of gunshots in the area at approximately 12:30 a.m. Upon arrival, they found Dequon Hill unresponsive in the driveway of a residence. Emergency personnel attempted life-saving measures, but Hill was pronounced dead at the scene. The area was immediately cordoned off as investigators combed for evidence and canvassed neighbors for information.

Officials have not yet announced any suspects or motive behind the shooting. However, the Sheriff’s Office confirmed that the incident is being treated as a homicide, and detectives are pursuing several leads.

Dequon Hill, described by loved ones as “humble, kind-hearted, and full of potential,” was known throughout the Jackson area for his warm smile and quiet strength. A graduate of Silver Bluff High School, Hill was working as a skilled laborer and was reportedly pursuing certification in HVAC work, aiming to build a stable future for himself and his young daughter. Friends say he had dreams of one day opening his own business and giving back to the very community where he grew up.

“He never messed with anybody. He stayed to himself and worked hard. This doesn’t make sense,” said longtime friend Raymond Butler. “We’re all just in shock. It’s like something was stolen from us.”

Neighbors described the scene as chaotic and heartbreaking. One resident who asked not to be named said she was awakened by the gunshots and looked out to see flashing lights and a flurry of law enforcement vehicles surrounding the home.

“I just can’t believe it happened right here in our neighborhood,” she said. “It’s terrifying. That young man had his whole life ahead of him.”

In the hours following the shooting, word of Hill’s death spread rapidly through social media, with dozens of posts honoring his memory and demanding justice. A vigil is being planned by local youth leaders and clergy for later this week, with candles, prayers, and community support offered in Hill’s name.

“We are tired of burying our young men,” said Pastor Marcus Evans, who leads a nearby church. “This cycle of violence must end. We’re praying for Dequon’s family and calling on the community to come together—not just to mourn, but to protect each other and make sure this doesn’t keep happening.”

Dequon is survived by his 3-year-old daughter, his mother Patrice Hill, and two younger brothers. His family, devastated by the sudden and senseless loss, has asked for privacy as they make arrangements for his funeral.

The Aiken County Sheriff’s Office is urging anyone with information about the shooting to come forward. Tips can be submitted anonymously through CrimeStoppers of the Midlands by calling 1-888-CRIME-SC or via their website. A reward may be available for information leading to an arrest.

As the investigation continues, the community of Jackson mourns the death of a promising young man whose life was cut far too short. The shock of his death will linger for some time, but so too will the love, memories, and dreams he leaves behind.