Halloween Trick or Treater T.J. Darrisaw Killed in Sumter South Carolina

On October 31, 2008, Halloween night in Sumter, South Carolina, turned tragic when 12-year-old T.J. Darrisaw was shot and killed while trick-or-treating with his family. What should have been a joyful evening quickly became a nightmare, leaving the local community in shock and mourning the loss of a young boy whose life ended far too soon. This shooting not only claimed T.J.’s life but also drew attention to issues of gun violence, safety, and the need for stronger preventive measures.

Halloween Night Turns Deadly

Halloween is typically a time for fun and festivities, especially for children like T.J., who eagerly look forward to trick-or-treating. On this particular Halloween, T.J., along with his stepfather, Vincent Darrisaw, his mother, younger brother, and other relative attended a Halloween block party event, then later that evening went door-to-door in search of more candy. The family reached the home of 23-year old Quentin Patrick at 215 S Wise Drive, unaware that this simple stop would be T.J.’s last breath that evening. As they approached the door, the night’s atmosphere quickly changed from joyful to chaotic.

T.J. Darrisaw: A Brief Introduction

T.J. Darrisaw was a bright, energetic 12-year-old boy known for his friendly nature and love for sports. As the eldest of three brothers, he was a role model for his siblings, often helping his parents with family responsibilities. His schoolteachers and classmates remember T.J. as a caring and enthusiastic student who was always willing to lend a hand.

The Fatal Shooting Incident

At approximately 8:30 PM, the Darrisaw family approached a residence that had its outside lights turned on, which indicates they are still passing out candy for Halloween night, so they stopped. T.J., his younger brother, stepfather and another relative knocked on the front door of Quentin Patrick’s residence. Quentin’s nineteen year old girlfriend peeked out the door to see T.J. standing there with a ghost face mask covering his face. This startled her and she screamed, which sent Quentin into a panic.

What followed was a barrage of gunfire that struck T.J. multiple times. Quentin Patrick, a resident of Sumter with a prior criminal record, fired nearly 30 rounds through the door, using an AK-47-style rifle. T.J. was tragically hit twelve times, collapsing on the porch in front of his terrified family.

The shooting also injured T.J.’s stepfather, Vincent, and his younger brother who were each hit two times, but survived. T.J.’s other relative and mother, while shaken, were not physically injured. The horror of that night was made even more devastating by the suddenness of the attack, as the family had no way of knowing that the residence they approached posed such danger.

The Role of Quentin Patrick

Quentin Patrick, a convicted felon, claimed that he had mistakenly believed he was being targeted by rival gang members or someone seeking retaliation. According to Patrick, he felt threatened by the approach of unknown people at his door, triggering an immediate and fatal overreaction. His use of a high-powered firearm in such a manner highlighted issues of gun possession by felons and the availability of firearms capable of rapid, extensive damage.

Patrick’s paranoia was fueled by his criminal background and a history of violent encounters, making him prone to perceive any unexpected presence as a potential threat. His defense later claimed that Patrick had acted out of fear and misjudgment, though this explanation did little to diminish the gravity of his actions.

The Victims and Their Injuries

T.J. sustained multiple gunshot wounds, including fatal injuries to his upper body. Despite immediate efforts by his stepfather and first responders to save him, T.J. succumbed to his injuries shortly after the shooting. Vincent Darrisaw, though wounded, managed to protect his family from further harm, even T.J.’s brother was hit and sustained non-life threatening injuries. T.J.’s mother and other relative, though uninjured, were traumatized by witnessing the death of their beloved family member. The impact of T.J.’s death would leave lasting scars, not only physically but also emotionally, for the Darrisaw family.

Immediate Reactions and 911 Call

The aftermath of the shooting was marked by panic and desperation. T.J.’s stepfather, despite his injuries, quickly dialed 911, pleading for help. His frantic call captured the fear and anguish of a parent trying to save his child’s life. Neighbors, drawn by the sound of gunfire and the cries for help, emerged from their homes to find a scene of horror.

Quentin Patrick left the scene with his girlfriend and her two kids. They got into their vehicle parked in the driveway and sped away. Moments later while authorities were on the scene, Quentin returned to the scene alone. He was quickly apprehended and placed under arrest.

Investigation and Police Response

Law enforcement responded promptly, securing the crime scene and taking Quentin Patrick into custody. Investigators discovered that Patrick’s home was equipped with makeshift security measures, indicating his readiness for a violent encounter. Officers recovered multiple firearms and spent shell casings from inside the residence.

Initial interviews revealed that Patrick had no specific knowledge of the Darrisaw family and that the shooting appeared to be a tragic case of mistaken intent. However, this did not diminish the severity of his actions or the consequences that followed.

The Legal Proceedings

Quentin Patrick was charged with murder, attempted murder, and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. His 19-year old girlfriend was also charged with obstruction of justice for trying to cover up the crime by leaving the scene with evidence. During court proceedings, Patrick’s defense argued that he had acted impulsively, fearing for his own safety. The prosecution, however, emphasized the reckless nature of his response and the extreme danger posed by using an automatic weapon in a residential area.

Patrick ultimately pled guilty to charges of murder and other offenses. He was sentenced to more than 16 years in federal prison for being a felon in possession of an assault weapon. For the murder and death of T.J. Darrisaw he was sentenced to more than 30 years in state prison. It’s a small measure of justice for the Darrisaw family, though it cannot bring back their lost son.

Community Shock and Outrage

T.J.’s death left the Sumter community in deep shock. What was supposed to be a festive night for children and families turned into a tragic reminder of the dangers that can unexpectedly arise. Local residents expressed grief, anger, and disbelief over the incident. Many called for stricter gun control laws and increased awareness about gun violence.

Media Coverage of the Incident

The shooting received significant media attention, not only because it involved a child on Halloween but also due to the nature of the crime and the circumstances surrounding it. News outlets across the nation reported on T.J.’s death, sparking discussions about gun laws, safety, and the risks children face even during simple traditions like trick-or-treating.

Gun Violence in South Carolina

South Carolina has experienced its share of gun violence, with T.J.’s death adding to a troubling pattern. The incident prompted conversations about the need for stricter regulations, particularly concerning felons possessing firearms and the widespread availability of assault-style weapons. Advocates for gun reform cited T.J.’s case as a clear example of the potential consequences of lax gun laws.

Halloween Safety Concerns

The shooting raised awareness about Halloween safety, prompting law enforcement agencies and communities nationwide to reconsider how to ensure children’s safety while trick-or-treating. While random acts of violence like T.J.’s death are rare, parents were urged to remain vigilant and take precautions, even during seemingly harmless activities.

Support for the Darrisaw Family

In the wake of the tragedy, community members, local organizations, and national advocacy groups offered support to the Darrisaw family. Fundraisers, memorial services, and moments of silence were organized in T.J.’s memory. The family’s resilience in the face of loss inspired many, highlighting the importance of community solidarity during times of grief.

Remembering T.J. Darrisaw

Over the years, T.J.’s family has worked to keep his memory alive, advocating for safer neighborhoods and stricter gun control measures. Local schools, organizations, and community members have held events in his honor, emphasizing the need for greater awareness of gun violence and the importance of keeping children safe.

Conclusion

The shooting death of T.J. Darrisaw on October 31, 2008, remains a heartbreaking reminder of the unpredictable dangers of gun violence. His tragic death continues to impact the Sumter community and serves as a call to action for better preventive measures, stricter gun regulations, and increased efforts to ensure the safety of children.