Rodney McKensey James Jr., 23, was fatally shot multiple times shortly after 3:20 a.m. on Sunday, April 28, 2024, in the parking lot of Amici Tavern on Savannah Highway in the Swansea area of Lexington County. Witnesses told investigators an argument between James and another man inside the tavern moved outside and escalated before the other man shot James. The shooter left in an unknown vehicle. Friends drove James a short distance to meet EMS; he was taken to a local hospital and pronounced dead of multiple gunshot wounds.

As of late May 2024 no arrests had been announced and the Lexington County Sheriff’s Department said its investigation had limited leads and was asking the public and CrimeStoppers for help. The town of Swansea did not renew Amici Tavern’s business license after this and other reported incidents, and the tavern closed. James, known as Hot-rod, was born July 19, 2000, and was a father to two sons; his obituary noted he enjoyed family cookouts, helping others, racing cars, dancing, and talking with family and friends.

If anyone remembers the argument that spilled into the tavern parking lot or saw a vehicle leaving the scene that morning, please contact CrimeStoppers or the Lexington County Sheriff’s Department with information.