Dominic Goodwin and Xavier J. Hopkins Identified as Victims killed in Leesburg Road Shooting Incident

Two individuals were fatally shot and a third was wounded on Tuesday night near Leesburg Road in a suspected drive-by shooting incident. The Richland County Sheriff’s Department reported that they were called to the 300 block of Hickory Ridge Drive after 10 p.m. following a report of gunfire. Upon arrival, deputies discovered a vehicle in the front yard of a residence with two unresponsive individuals inside.

The victims in the vehicle were identified as 22-year-olds Dominic Goodwin and Xavier J. Hopkins, both of Columbia. Tragically, they had both succumbed to their injuries by the time Columbia-Richland Fire Department and EMS arrived on the scene.

In addition to the two fatalities, deputies found another person inside the home who had sustained multiple gunshot wounds. This individual, whose identity has not been disclosed, was taken to the hospital for treatment but was not believed to be in critical condition.

The scene of the incident revealed several shell casings along the roadway, pointing to the possibility of a drive-by shooting. Richland County Coroner Naida Rutherford confirmed the identities of the deceased victims and stated that the investigation into the shooting is ongoing.

The authorities are urging anyone with information about this tragic event to come forward. Tips can be provided anonymously through CrimeStoppers at 1-888-CRIME-SC or via the P3Tips app.

This incident has left the community in shock, highlighting the urgent need for solutions to gun violence in the area. As the investigation continues, the Richland County Sheriff’s Department is committed to uncovering the circumstances that led to this senseless act of violence.

The tragic deaths of Dominic Goodwin and Xavier J. Hopkins have sent ripples of grief through their families and the broader community. The incident underscores the importance of community cooperation in solving crimes and bringing perpetrators to justice.

Authorities continue to work diligently to gather more information and bring those responsible to account. Updates on the investigation will be provided as more details become available.

In the meantime, the community is left to mourn the loss of two young lives cut short by violence, and the call for justice remains loud and clear.