A Dorchester County man, Davis Juan Bryant, has been charged with a weapons violation following an officer-involved shooting at a Walmart store in North Charleston. The incident, which occurred on July 14th at the Rivers Avenue Walmart, involved Bryant allegedly pointing a firearm at a North Charleston police officer. Surveillance footage captured the event, and Bryant is now facing serious charges, including possession of a firearm by a convicted felon and pointing a firearm at a person.
Details of the Incident
According to affidavits from the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED), Bryant, 47, was involved in a confrontation with an off-duty North Charleston police officer working security at Walmart. The officer had been alerted to Bryant, who was suspected of attempting a fraudulent return at the store. When the officer tried to place Bryant under trespass notice and remove him from the premises, Bryant fled the scene, initiating a brief pursuit.
During the chase, Bryant allegedly pulled out a 9mm handgun and pointed it at the officer, creating a serious threat. The officer responded by discharging his firearm, striking Bryant. Surveillance footage from the store, which was reviewed by SLED, showed Bryant with the firearm, which was later recovered by law enforcement.
Charges Against Bryant
Bryant has been charged with several serious offenses, including:
Possession of a firearm by a convicted felon of a violent crime (first offense) – This charge stems from Bryant’s past conviction for a violent crime, which legally prohibits him from possessing a firearm.
Pointing a firearm at a person – This charge is related to the moment when Bryant allegedly aimed the gun at the officer during the pursuit.
These charges come after an investigation by SLED, which is continuing. The use of a firearm during the incident, combined with Bryant’s criminal history, has led to the severe charges he now faces.
The Officer-Involved Shooting
The officer who discharged his firearm during the incident was working in an off-duty capacity at the Walmart store. According to reports from the North Charleston Police Department, the officer acted in response to the perceived threat posed by Bryant during the pursuit. Thankfully, Bryant survived the shooting and was taken into custody.
Bryant’s Criminal History
Bryant’s criminal history played a key role in the weapons charges against him. Due to a previous conviction for a violent crime in South Carolina, he is prohibited from possessing any firearms. This prior conviction now complicates his legal situation, adding the charge of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon to the list of offenses.
Community Impact
The incident at Walmart has raised concerns about safety and the role of law enforcement in handling situations involving potential fraud and violence. The officer’s quick response to the threat may have prevented further harm, but the shooting highlights the dangers faced by officers when dealing with individuals who may be armed.
Davis Juan Bryant’s actions at the Rivers Avenue Walmart on July 14th have led to multiple serious charges, including possession of a firearm by a convicted felon and pointing a firearm at a police officer. The incident, which involved a brief pursuit and an officer-involved shooting, is still under investigation by SLED. Bryant, who has a violent criminal history, is now facing the legal consequences of his actions, while the community is reminded of the risks that law enforcement officers face when responding to potential threats.
