In a recent city council meeting, officials addressed a troubling surge in gun violence and crime within the community, highlighting several alarming incidents over the past week. Among the reported events were the shootings of an 18-year-old and a 13-year-old, as well as a suicide by gunfire. The council noted that 80 firearms have been stolen this year, with half taken from unlocked vehicles.

City leaders expressed frustration over South Carolina's restrictions on local gun safety measures, stating that municipalities are barred from enacting their own gun policies. Despite identifying 50 key policies that could enhance gun safety, the state only allows for 11 of these to be implemented at the local level. This limitation has prompted officials to seek alternative strategies to combat rising crime rates, particularly in light of a steady increase in car break-ins since 2019.

Council members discussed the importance of utilizing monthly crime reports and data to track trends and develop proactive measures. They emphasized the need for community engagement, including promoting basic safety practices such as locking vehicles and securing firearms. The council also explored potential partnerships with county agencies and the pursuit of federal crime prevention grants to bolster local efforts.

As the meeting concluded, officials reiterated their commitment to addressing gun violence and ensuring the safety of residents, acknowledging the urgency of the situation and the expectations of the community for effective action.