YEMASSEE, SC — A domestic violence incident in the early hours of December 29 escalated when a teenage son reportedly shot his mother’s boyfriend while defending her from an ongoing assault. The suspect, identified as Charlie E. Simmons of Yemassee, is now in custody and facing first-degree domestic violence charges classified as high and aggravated.

The situation unfolded around 4:00 a.m. when officers responded to a report from a subject who wished to speak with police about an incident involving his mother and her boyfriend. According to the report, the boyfriend was actively assaulting the boy’s mother, prompting the son to intervene by firing a shot.

After being struck once in the throat, Simmons fled the scene with his two minor children. The Yemassee Police Department, with assistance from the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) and the Richland County Sheriff’s Department, later located Simmons near a Krispy Kreme off Clemson Road in Columbia.

Simmons was taken into custody and transported to a local hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. He has since been moved to the Hampton County Detention Center.

The two minor children were safely reunited with their mother. Authorities emphasize that the safety and privacy of the victims, particularly the minors, remain a top priority as the investigation continues.

Yemassee Police Chief Alexander praised the collaborative effort in apprehending the suspect, stating, “I commend the outstanding dedication of my colleagues and extend heartfelt appreciation to SLED and the Richland County Sheriff’s Office for their prompt and safe collaboration in bringing this case to a resolution.”

This case highlights the complex and dangerous nature of domestic violence incidents, particularly when children or other family members are present. While law enforcement continues to investigate, this incident reinforces the importance of knowing when and how to act to protect a loved one under immediate threat of serious harm. This incident underscores the importance of being prepared to act decisively when faced with an immediate threat to a loved one’s life or safety.