Brandon Xavier Gadsden, 40, of Newberry, South Carolina, was shot and killed in the early morning of June 4, 2025. Deputies found him with grave injuries in a parking area of Millers Fork Trail near West Corporate Center Drive and Highway 72 East in Clinton at about 6:30 a.m.; he died shortly after despite medical aid.

Law enforcement quickly identified a suspect and by about 7:00 p.m. that same day had arrested 17-year-old Kevonte Cunningham of Cross Hill. Cunningham was charged with murder and possession of a weapon during a violent crime and was charged as an adult. He was denied bond at his initial hearing.

The Laurens County Sheriff’s Office offered condolences to Gadsden’s family as the case proceeds. If anyone saw activity near Millers Fork Trail that morning or has information about the shooting, please come forward.