Six individuals, including four juveniles, have been arrested and charged in connection with a chaotic Fourth of July block party in North Charleston, South Carolina, that involved gunfire, a machine gun, and assaults on police officers, authorities announced.
The incident occurred in the Chicora-Cherokee community on July 4, when officers responded to reports of gunfire and fights at a permitted neighborhood gathering. The North Charleston Police Department stated that officers initially received word of fireworks being discharged toward passing vehicles before learning that several attendees had begun firing guns.
Despite officers announcing that the event had concluded and instructing attendees to leave, multiple fights broke out, and additional gunshots were fired. During their response, officers recovered multiple firearms, including a weapon described as a machine gun, and a makeshift spear.
Police reported that several officers were assaulted during the confrontation. Viral video footage from the scene appears to show a female officer being pulled to the ground and struck by multiple individuals while attempting to detain a woman. Another officer intervened, using what appeared to be a stun gun before assisting in restraining those involved. Two female officers sustained minor injuries.
The juveniles face charges including third-degree assault by mob, assault on a police officer while resisting arrest, resisting arrest, possession of a machine gun, and breach of peace. Police did not release their identities due to their age.
Two adults were also arrested. Giovanni Mekhi Sincere Campbell, 19, was charged with possession of a machine gun. Sa'Mya Adriana Collette Weaver, 18, faces charges of breach of peace and assault on a police officer while resisting arrest.
Authorities stated that no civilian injuries were reported. The North Charleston Police Department emphasized that attacks on law enforcement are unacceptable and vowed that those responsible would be prosecuted. The investigation into the shootings and other criminal activity connected to the incident remains active, with the possibility of additional arrests and charges.
Law enforcement agencies from Charleston County Sheriff's Office, Charleston Police Department, Berkeley County Sheriff's Office, and South Carolina Highway Patrol assisted in the response. Police have not yet confirmed if any of the recovered firearms were discharged during the event or if the makeshift spear was used in the assaults.
