TEEN FOUND SHOT DEAD ON ROADSIDE IN WARRENVILLE — TRANARD SHEPPARD, 18, IDENTIFIED AS VICTIM

Warrenville, SC – Aiken County authorities are investigating a heartbreaking tragedy that has rocked the small town of Warrenville, South Carolina. 18-year-old Tranard E. Sheppard was found dead early Sunday morning, the victim of a brutal shooting that has left his family, friends, and the community in shock and mourning.

Just after 3:00 a.m. on Sunday, June 22, deputies with the Aiken County Sheriff’s Office responded to a report of a person lying on the roadside near Sarah Street, a quiet stretch in a residential part of Warrenville. When they arrived, they discovered the body of a young male—later identified as Tranard Sheppard—with multiple gunshot wounds. Emergency medical responders confirmed that Tranard was already deceased when help arrived.

As of now, no suspects have been identified, and authorities say the investigation is ongoing. Detectives have been canvassing the area, speaking with residents, collecting surveillance footage, and following up on all available leads. Anyone with information is being urged to come forward and assist in helping Tranard’s loved ones find justice.

A Young Life Cut Tragically Short

Tranard Sheppard had just turned 18—a milestone meant to mark the beginning of adulthood, dreams, and possibilities. Instead, his life was taken far too soon, under violent and senseless circumstances that have left those who knew him devastated.

Family members describe Tranard as bright, ambitious, and full of life. He was known for his charisma, quick wit, and big heart. Though still a teenager, he had a maturity about him that drew people in. Whether he was laughing with friends, spending time with loved ones, or planning his next steps in life, Tranard carried himself with quiet confidence and deep loyalty to those he cared about.

“He wasn’t perfect, but he was ours,” said one family member. “He had goals. He had plans. He didn’t deserve this.”

Friends say he had recently expressed interest in pursuing a career in mechanics or possibly enrolling in trade school. He had a love for cars, music, and his community, and he was known to always lend a hand when someone needed help.

A Community in Grief

The Warrenville community is struggling to make sense of the tragedy. On Sunday evening, neighbors gathered near Sarah Street to lay candles, flowers, and handwritten messages in memory of Tranard. A makeshift memorial now marks the place where his body was found—a silent reminder of the violence that claimed his life.

Local leaders and pastors have expressed deep sorrow and concern over the violence that continues to plague young people in the region. Community members are calling for unity, intervention, and justice—not only for Tranard, but to protect others from the same fate.

“This can’t be just another name. Another statistic. Tranard mattered,” said one speaker at the memorial. “We owe it to his memory to stand up, speak out, and do better.”

Ongoing Investigation

The Aiken County Sheriff’s Office is urging anyone with information—no matter how minor it may seem—to come forward. They believe that someone knows something that could help bring closure to this case and accountability to whoever is responsible for Tranard’s death.

Anonymous tips can be submitted through CrimeStoppers of the Midlands or directly through the sheriff’s tip line.

Remembering Tranard E. Sheppard

As those who loved Tranard come to terms with this unimaginable loss, they are choosing to remember him not for the violence that ended his life, but for the kindness, laughter, and love he shared while he was here.

Plans are underway for a public vigil later this week, with family and friends expected to gather in prayer and remembrance. A GoFundMe has been established to assist with funeral expenses and support the Sheppard family in the difficult days ahead.

Rest in Power, Tranard E. Sheppard.

You were loved. You were full of potential.

You will not be forgotten. 🕊️