North Augusta, SC – A devastating shooting at a Sprint gas station on Edgefield Road has left two people dead and one suspect injured. Authorities say the violent confrontation occurred on Sunday, October 29, 2025, claiming the lives of 76-year-old Jewel Harden and 33-year-old Thomas B. Lilly Jr.
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What Happened: A Tragic Confrontation
At approximately 2:30 p.m. on Sunday, officers from the North Augusta Department of Public Safety (NADPS) responded to reports of an armed robbery and gunfire at the Sprint Gas Station, located at 107 Edgefield Road.
Upon arrival, officers encountered 21-year-old J’Shawn Deonte Dukes, who was armed with a rifle and standing near a burgundy Toyota Camry in front of the station. Police ordered Dukes to drop his weapon, but according to officials, he pointed the rifle toward officers.
In response, Cpl. Dylan Givens of NADPS discharged his service weapon, striking the suspect. Officers quickly secured Dukes and rendered medical aid before transporting him to a nearby hospital for treatment.
Inside the store, officers discovered two victims — Jewel Harden and Thomas Lilly Jr. — both suffering from fatal gunshot wounds. Paramedics arrived shortly afterward, but tragically, both victims were pronounced dead at the scene.
Who Is J’Shawn Deonte Dukes?
J’Shawn Deonte Dukes, the 21-year-old suspect, reportedly has a prior criminal record. According to preliminary reports, he was previously arrested in Bullock County, Georgia, on April 4, 2023, on charges of reckless conduct and assault, though he was released two days later.
Authorities are currently reviewing Dukes’ criminal history as part of the ongoing investigation to determine whether previous incidents could have been a warning sign.
Community in Mourning
The tragic deaths of Jewel Harden and Thomas Lilly Jr. have deeply shaken the North Augusta and Borough Park communities.
Harden, 76, was remembered as a beloved community member, known for her kindness, warmth, and dedication to helping others. Lilly, 33, was recognized as a hardworking and compassionate individual who was actively rebuilding his life and giving back to his community.
In Lilly’s honor, a memorial hockey game was recently held to celebrate his life and support his family. The event brought together residents from across the area and raised funds to help the victims’ loved ones cope with their loss.
Local leaders and residents have expressed their condolences, condemning the senseless violence that has once again rocked their community. Many are now urging for greater safety measures to protect families and local businesses.
Official Statement and Ongoing Investigation
The South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) has taken over the investigation, as is standard procedure in officer-involved shootings. The North Augusta Department of Public Safety has pledged full cooperation with SLED as they work to piece together what led to the deadly encounter.
NADPS Chief Junior Johnson issued a statement saying,
“We continue to extend our deepest condolences to the families of the victims. This is a heartbreaking event, and we are working closely with SLED to ensure a thorough and transparent investigation.”
Officer Cpl. Dylan Givens has been placed on administrative leave, in accordance with department policy, pending the outcome of the investigation.
Looking Ahead: A Call for Justice and Healing
Authorities are urging the public to remain patient as SLED completes its investigation. Anyone with additional information about the incident is encouraged to contact North Augusta Department of Public Safety at 770-387-5195.
The families of Jewel Harden and Thomas Lilly Jr. continue to grieve their unimaginable loss. As the North Augusta community mourns, residents are coming together in remembrance — seeking justice, peace, and healing after this tragedy.
This story will be updated as more information becomes available.