Cottageville, SC- On September 6, 2026, at approximately 9:20 p.m., Colleton County Sheriff’s Office deputies and members of the Criminal Investigation Division responded to a residence in the 400 block of Rhode Drive regarding a report of an adult male who had been shot.
According to witnesses, three 17-year-old male acquaintances met with the victim at his residence after arranging to privately purchase a firearm from him. Following an argument, the suspects opened fire on the victim, who sustained multiple gunshot wounds and was transported by Colleton County Fire-Rescue to an area trauma center for treatment. The victim remains cooperative with investigators.
The individuals involved were known to the victim, and this incident was not a random act of violence.
Colleton County Detectives identified the suspects and safely took them into custody at Colleton County High School on September 8, 2026, when they showed up for their classes, without incident.
The three 17-year-old suspects are all being charged as adults and are charged with: Armed Robbery, Attempted Murder, and Possession of a Weapon during a Violent Crime.
Giauta Dereon Cochran (17) of Walterboro, SC
Javari Treshawn McMillan (17) of Summerville, SC
Xavier Tylee Smart (17) of Yemassee, SC
As of Tuesday morning, the victim is recovering but remains in serious condition with additional surgeries scheduled.
