North Augusta, SC — A tragic shooting at a Sprint gas station on Edgefield Road has left two people dead and one suspect injured, with local authorities continuing to investigate the circumstances of the incident. The shooting occurred on Sunday, October 29, 2025, and resulted in the death of 76-year-old Jewel Harden and 33-year-old Thomas B. Lilly Jr..
What Happened: A Tragic Confrontation and Officer-Involved Shooting
At approximately 2:30 p.m. on Sunday, officers from the North Augusta Public Safety Department responded to reports of an armed robbery and shots fired at the Sprint gas station located at 107 Edgefield Road. When officers arrived, they encountered 21-year-old J’shawn Deonte Dukes, who was seen walking away from a burgundy Toyota Camry parked near the front of the store, carrying a rifle.
Officers immediately instructed Dukes to drop the weapon, but he allegedly pointed the rifle towards law enforcement. In response, Cpl. Dillon Givens of the North Augusta Public Safety Department fired his department-issued weapon, striking Dukes. Authorities secured the suspect, and medical aid was immediately provided. Dukes was later transported to a local hospital for treatment of his injuries.
Upon securing the scene, officers entered the store and found two victims, identified as Jewel Harden and Thomas Lilly, who had suffered fatal gunshot wounds. EMS arrived at the scene shortly after and pronounced both victims dead.
Who Was J’shawn Deonte Dukes?
J’shawn Deonte Dukes, the 21-year-old suspect in this incident, has a history of prior charges. He was arrested on April 4, 2023, in Bullock County, Georgia, for charges of reckless conduct and battery but was released after two days. Dukes’ criminal history is currently under review as part of the ongoing investigation.
Public Reactions and Community Impact
The news of this deadly shooting has sent shockwaves through the North Augusta and Borough Park communities, where the victims were well-known. Jewel Harden was a beloved community member, remembered for her dedication and warmth, and Thomas Lilly, a man who had been working hard on his recovery journey, is being remembered by loved ones for his kindness and resilience.
In response to the tragic incident, local leaders have expressed their condolences to the families of the victims. A memorial hockey game was organized in memory of Thomas Lilly and his support for local youth sports. This game not only honored his life but also raised funds to support the family during this difficult time.
Many in the community have expressed sorrow over the senseless violence, urging for the protection and safety of local businesses and families.
Official Statements and Investigation Updates
The South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) has taken over the investigation as part of standard procedure for officer-involved shootings. The investigation remains ongoing, and the North Augusta Public Safety Department continues to cooperate fully with SLED in its efforts to piece together the events that led to this deadly confrontation.
NADPS Chief Junior Johnson addressed the community, saying, “We continue to send our deepest condolences to the families of the victims. This is a tragic event, and we will continue to work with law enforcement to bring clarity to the situation.”
Cpl. Dillon Givens, the officer involved in the shooting, has been placed on administrative leave, which is standard procedure while the investigation is underway.
Looking Ahead: Seeking Justice and Safety
As the investigation continues, authorities are asking the community to be patient and allow SLED time to complete their thorough investigation. In addition, anyone with any information about the incident is urged to contact SLED directly or reach out to the North Augusta Public Safety Department at 770-387-5195.
The family and community of Jewel Harden and Thomas Lilly Jr. are left grappling with the devastating loss of two beloved individuals, and North Augusta residents are left reflecting on the profound impact of this tragedy.
This story may be updated with more information as it becomes available.
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