A summer celebration turned to heartbreak late Friday night when gunfire erupted at the Pageland Watermelon Festival, claiming the life of 17-year-old Sean Davis — a beloved student-athlete from Central High School.
The shooting occurred around 10:41 p.m. near the intersection of McGregor and South Pearl Street, just steps from a Pageland Police Department tent and within sight of Chesterfield County deputies working festival security. Panic swept the crowd as shots rang out, sending dozens of festivalgoers fleeing in fear.
Sean Davis, a rising star on Central High School’s varsity football and basketball teams and a track athlete, was critically injured in the shooting. Though emergency responders initially called for a medical helicopter from Pageland Airport, they rushed him by ambulance to a trauma center in the Charlotte area due to the severity of his condition. Tragically, Davis was pronounced dead before arriving.
The Chesterfield County Coroner confirmed his death around midnight.
The South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) has taken over the investigation. Crime scene technicians worked through the night, meticulously collecting evidence and analyzing the area where Davis fell. Investigators also discovered a second trail of blood nearby, suggesting another person may have been wounded. Area hospitals were alerted to watch for patients seeking treatment for gunshot injuries.
No suspects have been publicly named, and authorities have not released details on what may have led to the shooting.
Sean Davis was more than an athlete — he was a beloved son, teammate, and friend. Standing 6 feet tall and weighing 144 pounds, he was known as #5 on the football field, playing as a wide receiver, running back, and strong safety. He also wore #32 for Central’s JV basketball team and was a dedicated member of the track and cross-country squads.
In a deeply emotional statement, the Central High XC and Track and Field team canceled Saturday morning’s Melon Mile 5k in his honor:
“One of our track runners, Sean Davis, was tragically and fatally shot last night. We have no words adequate to express our sympathy for the family. We love you Davis family and are here for you.”
Ceshia Davis, his aunt, shared her grief on social media:
“Lord keep us in your prayers. My brother and wife have a battle to fight like nothing before. Rest easy nephew, save a seat for us.”
Wayne Shaw, a community member, expressed sorrow and frustration:
“He didn’t deserve this… My heart goes out to the family and friends. This shooting has to stop. Our community can’t even enjoy events because of senseless violence.”
Following the tragic incident, Pageland officials canceled the remainder of the Watermelon Festival, one of the town’s most cherished summer traditions.
In a statement released Saturday, the Town of Pageland said:
“With deep sadness, we announce that all remaining events for the Watermelon Festival have been canceled. Out of respect for the victim and their family, we believe this is the most appropriate course of action.”
Pageland Police Chief Short also extended his condolences:
“This is a heartbreaking event that deeply impacts our entire community. Our hearts go out to the family and loved ones of the young individual whose life was tragically lost.”
As the investigation continues, local residents are urged to come forward with any information that may help authorities identify those responsible. The Chesterfield County Sheriff’s Office and SLED remain tight-lipped about potential leads, but stress that every detail matters.
Sean Davis’ death has left a hole in Pageland — a vibrant, kind-hearted young man taken too soon, in a place meant for joy and unity.