Teen killed in shooting that shut down Pageland Watermelon Festival, police say
A teenager died July 18 night in a shooting that shut down the Pageland Watermelon Festival, police say. Another teen was arrested.
The Pageland Police Department said in a statement the victim was 17 years old but did not provide additional details. The South Carolina Law Enforcement Division is leading the investigation into the shooting, according to the police statement.
“Our hearts go out to the family and loved ones of the young individual whose life was tragically lost,” Pageland Police Chief Dean Short said. “This is a heartbreaking event that deeply impacts our entire community.”
On Sunday, the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division announced that Jayden Jeremiah Jefferies, 17, had been charged with murder, possession of a weapon during a deadly crime, and an additional allegation for a concealable weapon because he isn’t only enough for a concealed-weapon permit.
The multi-day festival, held since 1951, is an annual tradition featuring watermelon eating contests, a parade and a beauty pageant in the Chesterfield County town about an hour south of Charlotte.
The town announced on its Facebook page Saturday morning the rest of the festival was canceled in the wake of the shooting.
“Out of respect for the victim and their family, we believe this is the most appropriate course of action,” the town’s post said. “Our hearts and prayers are with all those affected by this senseless act of violence. We thank our community for their understanding, and we ask everyone to continue supporting one another during this difficult time.”
This story was originally published July 19, 2025 at 12:16 PM.
