ORANGEBURG COUNTY, S.C. — A life was tragically cut short in Orangeburg County on Thursday, July 31, as authorities confirmed the death of a 21-year-old man in a fatal shooting that has left family, friends, and the surrounding community in mourning. While details surrounding the incident remain scarce, the Orangeburg County Coroner’s Office publicly identified the victim on Saturday evening as Alexander Bloodworth of the Cope area.
According to officials, Bloodworth was pronounced dead at the scene of the shooting, which occurred in the 100 block of Navy Drive—an area just outside the city limits of Orangeburg. First responders were called to the location shortly after reports of gunfire surfaced, where they discovered the young man’s body. Despite emergency efforts, he was declared deceased at the scene.
As of now, no law enforcement agency has released specific details about the circumstances that led to the fatal shooting. It remains unclear whether Bloodworth was targeted or if the incident resulted from a dispute or other altercation. Authorities have also not stated if any arrests have been made or if there are suspects currently being pursued in connection with the shooting.
News19 and other local outlets have reached out to the Orangeburg County Sheriff’s Office and other investigative units for more information, but no additional details have been released. An autopsy is scheduled to be performed on Monday, August 4, which may shed more light on the cause of death and possibly contribute to the direction of the ongoing investigation.
The lack of public information has left a cloud of uncertainty hovering over the tight-knit Cope community, where Alexander Bloodworth was known and loved. Friends and family have expressed grief and disbelief on social media and in community forums, remembering him as a kindhearted young man with a bright future ahead.
Neighbors near Navy Drive reported hearing gunshots on Thursday evening, followed by the arrival of multiple law enforcement vehicles. The area was cordoned off as investigators combed the scene for evidence, but no official updates have been given regarding what was recovered or what might have led to the shooting.
Community leaders and local clergy have urged calm while calling for cooperation with authorities. Many are also renewing calls for stronger anti-violence initiatives, especially those focused on youth engagement and conflict resolution, amid rising concerns about the frequency of gun violence incidents in the region.
Bloodworth’s death marks yet another devastating blow to a county that, like much of the state, continues to grapple with the consequences of community violence. While investigations continue, the silence from authorities has only deepened the grief and frustration felt by those who knew and loved the young man.
As his family prepares for the difficult task of laying Alexander to rest, they—and the broader Orangeburg County community—are hoping for swift answers, accountability, and ultimately, peace.
Further updates are expected from law enforcement once the autopsy is completed and the investigation progresses. In the meantime, anyone with information related to the incident is urged to contact the Orangeburg County Sheriff’s Office or submit anonymous tips through Crime Stoppers.