A tragic drive-by shooting case in Kershaw County, South Carolina, has ended with a life sentence for the man responsible. The incident, which took place in 2022, led to the death of a teenager and left another victim injured.
Life Sentence in Kershaw County Shooting Case
A Kershaw County court has sentenced Troy Eugene Keitt Jr. to life in prison plus 65 years after he was found guilty of multiple serious charges.
The convictions include:
- Murder
- Two counts of attempted murder
- Possession of a weapon during a violent crime
He will serve his sentence in the South Carolina Department of Corrections.
What Happened on July 17, 2022
According to prosecutors, the incident happened on Watts Hill Road along Highway 1. Keitt and three accomplices were travelling in a vehicle when they began following a white Dodge Dart carrying three victims.
Authorities said the attackers pulled up next to the car and opened fire, shooting multiple rounds into the vehicle.
Teen Victim Killed in Shooting
During the attack, 17-year-old Justice Rutherford was fatally shot in the neck.
Another juvenile inside the car was also injured but survived the incident.
The case deeply impacted the local community, especially because of the young age of the victims.
Evidence Presented in Court
Prosecutors said the case was supported by:
- Witness testimony
- Forensic evidence
- Actions taken by the accused after the crime
Investigators revealed that Keitt and his accomplices tried to hide or destroy evidence the day after the shooting, which further strengthened the case against them.
Serious Consequences for Violent Crime
The sentence reflects the severity of the crime, especially given that it involved:
- A planned attack
- Multiple victims
- Use of firearms in a public setting
Authorities often push for strict punishment in such cases to send a strong message against violent crime.
