A Kingstree teenager has been arrested on a weapons charge and others are being sought in a multi brawl that took place in the parking lot of Kingstree Senior High School. Tyron Morris, 18, of Kingstree, is charged with the unlawful carry of a weapon on school property. Morris' arrest followed a series of events that began inside the school gymnasium.
Several Kingstree police officers on duty during a December 2, basketball event had previously broken up a fight inside the gymnasium. However, when the last game ended and the crowd, which was estimated to be between 200 and 250 people filed into the parking lot, order quickly turned chaotic. According to reports, separate fights involving students and young adults ensued. Less than half a dozen police had to force their way through large groups of people who had gathered around each fight in order to restore order.
Off-duty police and Williamsburg County Sheriff's deputies were mobilized within moments where they assisted in the post-game bedlam. During one of the fights witnesses alerted police to a teen brandishing a firearm. The suspect, who was identified as Morris, fled the scene but police later arrested him. He is currently housed in the Williamsburg County Detention Center. Another teenager was charged with disturbing schools and other suspects are being sought in connection to the Saturday night incident.
According to police, several fights were instigated by local gang members who were attending the games. Law enforcement estimates four to six gang sects exist within Williamsburg County. Gang members can be identified by their clothing colors or tags.
Kingstree Police Chief Eric Williams said a meeting later occurred with school officials where they discussed effective security measures. The measures have since been instituted. "Security has been enhanced tremendously," said Williams. "And its not only with the efforts of this department but also with the surrounding departments." Police also continue to investigate the incident. Suspects are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
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