Easley Police Department officers involved in second fatal shooting in less than a week
For the second time in less than a week, South Carolina law enforcement officials are investigating a shooting involving Easley Police. At least one officer fired a weapon on Saturday at Daniel Scott McGoldrick, 35, during a domestic violence call, according to Easley Police Department Lt. Ashley Anderson.
Domestic Violence Call
The incident unfolded when a caller reported a man had shoved a woman to the ground, causing her to hit her head. Responding officers arrived at the home in the 100 block of Scott Avenue around 1:30 p.m., where they encountered a woman and child standing outside while McGoldrick re-entered the residence.
Officers, attempting to diffuse the situation, requested McGoldrick to come outside. However, he refused and instead opened the door, brandishing a firearm. Subsequently, at least one EPD officer fired at McGoldrick in response.
Victim Identity
The woman involved in the incident was not identified by the police, nor was her relationship to McGoldrick clarified. Pickens County coroner confirmed McGoldrick’s time of death as 2:14 p.m.
Lt. Anderson stated that all the officers present at the scene have been placed on paid administrative leave, although the exact number of officers involved was not disclosed. The South Carolina Law Enforcement Division has taken over the investigation into the shooting.
Previous Incident
This marks the second shooting involving the Easley PD in less than a week. On July 9, officers fatally shot Nicholas Elias Fernandez, 26, of Greer. According to Lt. Anderson, Fernandez had made threats to a Tractor Supply store manager and subsequently charged at officers with an ax.
The Easley Police Department is facing scrutiny following these consecutive fatal shootings, prompting questions and concerns from the community.
More Police Involvement
Local residents are expressing growing unease over the frequency of such police-involved shootings in the area. Calls for greater accountability and transparency within law enforcement agencies have escalated as a result of these incidents.
Community Response
Members of the community are calling for a thorough and impartial investigation into both recent shootings involving the Easley Police Department. Concerns about the use of force and de-escalation techniques employed by officers during these confrontations have been raised.
The incidents have reignited discussions about police training and protocols when handling volatile situations, especially those involving individuals experiencing mental health crises.
Police Oversight
In light of these events, there are calls for enhanced oversight and accountability measures to be implemented within the Easley Police Department. Community leaders and activists are advocating for increased transparency and engagement between law enforcement and the public.
Conclusion
The Easley Police Department is under heightened scrutiny following the consecutive fatal shootings involving officers in less than a week. As investigations into these incidents unfold, the community is seeking answers and assurances that protocols and practices are in place to prevent such tragedies in the future.
