Justin Lowery Obituary, Death – Authorities have released the identity of the man who was killed during a tense standoff with deputies in Florence County on Wednesday. The individual, identified as Justin Lowery, lost his life after being shot by deputies when he advanced toward them in what was described as a threatening manner while holding a firearm.
The incident unfolded at a residence on Anderson Field Road in Effingham, where Florence County deputies were dispatched following reports that emergency medical service (EMS) crews had been fired upon multiple times. According to officials, Lowery had opened fire on the EMS personnel before law enforcement arrived at the scene.
Investigators further revealed that prior to the deputies’ arrival, Lowery had also shot at his own mother, escalating the dangerous situation. When confronted by law enforcement officers, he allegedly continued to pose a threat, leading deputies to fire their weapons in response.
After being struck, Lowery was quickly transported to a nearby hospital. Despite medical efforts, he was pronounced dead shortly after arrival.
The Florence County Coroner confirmed his identity on Thursday and noted that an autopsy is scheduled for Saturday at the Medical University of South Carolina to determine the precise cause of death.
In accordance with state procedures, the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) has taken over the investigation into the officer-involved shooting. Their role will include examining the circumstances of the confrontation, the use of force by deputies, and the events leading up to the violent exchange.
Law enforcement officials have emphasized that the deputies’ response came after repeated warnings and dangerous actions by Lowery that posed a direct threat to both first responders and civilians in the area. Investigators are piecing together the timeline of events, including what led to the initial gunfire directed at EMS workers.
No deputies or other individuals were reported injured during the incident, though authorities underscored that the situation could have ended far worse given the threats against both medical personnel and family members.
The sheriff’s office expressed appreciation for the swift response of its deputies and the assistance of supporting agencies in ensuring that the broader community was not harmed during the standoff. At the same time, officials acknowledged the tragic nature of the event, noting the impact it has on families, first responders, and the community at large.
Further details, including whether mental health or other contributing factors played a role in Lowery’s actions, remain under investigation. SLED’s findings will ultimately be presented to prosecutors for review, a standard step in officer-involved shooting cases in South Carolina.
Community members are urged to remain patient as investigators work to gather all the facts. Meanwhile, the sheriff’s office reaffirmed its commitment to transparency in sharing information as it becomes available.
The investigation is ongoing, with more updates expected following the autopsy and continued review by SLED.
