Whitmire, Newberry County, October 3, 2025
News Summary
The Newberry County Sheriff’s Office is investigating a reported threat made against Whitmire Community School. Enhanced security has been put in place as deputies conduct interviews to gather more information. Meanwhile, a separate incident has led to the arrest of a man connected to a shooting in Prosperity. No injuries were reported in that incident, and authorities confirmed that school activities have returned to normal.
Newberry
The Newberry County Sheriff’s Office is currently investigating a possible threat made against Whitmire Community School. The concern was reported by the school district late Wednesday night, prompting an immediate response from local authorities.
As a precautionary measure, additional security has been deployed at Whitmire Community School and the surrounding area. Law enforcement, including deputies, school resource officers, and investigators, are conducting dozens of interviews with students, parents, and social media users to gather more information regarding the alleged threat. So far, there has been no credible evidence to confirm that a student made a threat. Some individuals have mentioned seeing notes related to the incident, but no physical notes or photos have been provided to authorities as of yet. The investigation into the potential threat remains active.
In light of these events, authorities are urging anyone with credible information to call the Newberry County Sheriff’s Office at 803-321-2222. The Newberry County Sheriff’s Office, along with the School District of Newberry County, emphasizes their commitment to protecting the safety of children and staff within the community.
Separately, 39-year-old Elbert Epps was arrested in connection with a shooting that occurred on Langford Street in Prosperity. Epps faces serious charges including attempted murder, possession of a weapon during a violent crime, and possession of cocaine and fentanyl with intent to distribute. The shooting incident prompted Prosperity-Rikard Elementary School to be placed on lockdown, and the nearby Mid-Carolina campus was also alerted. Fortunately, no injuries were reported due to the shooting.
After the shooting, Epps fled into nearby woods but was apprehended shortly thereafter. The schools were on alert for less than 20 minutes while authorities assessed the situation, and school operations returned to normal once it was determined that the area was safe. Following his arrest, Epps was booked into the Newberry County Detention Center, and the investigation into the shooting incident remains ongoing, with further updates expected in the near future.
Summary of Events
- Whitmire Community School received a reported threat, prompting an investigation and increased security.
- No credible evidence confirms the threat as of now; investigation is ongoing.
- Elbert Epps was arrested for a separate shooting incident in Prosperity.
- Schools in the area temporarily went on alert but returned to normal operations shortly after.
Important Contacts
Anyone with credible information regarding the threat against Whitmire Community School is encouraged to contact the Newberry County Sheriff’s Office at 803-321-2222.
FAQ
What is the current situation at Whitmire Community School?
The Newberry County Sheriff’s Office is investigating a possible threat made against Whitmire Community School. Additional security has been deployed in the area.
Has there been any evidence confirming the threat?
So far, no credible evidence has confirmed that a student made a threat.
What happened during the shooting incident involving Elbert Epps?
Elbert Epps was arrested in connection with a shooting that occurred on Langford Street in Prosperity. There were no injuries reported, and the nearby schools went on alert temporarily.
Key Features Summary
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Investigation | Active investigation into a possible threat against Whitmire Community School. |
| Security Measures | Increased security presence at the school and surrounding areas. |
| Related Incident | Separate shooting incident involving Elbert Epps resulting in an arrest. |
| Safety Confirmation | Schools returned to normal operations after the threat assessment. |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- WISTV: Newberry County Elementary School Locked Down After Shooting
- Wikipedia: Newberry County, South Carolina
- WACH: Sheriff’s Office Investigating Possible Threat at Midlands School
- Google Search: Whitmire Community School
- ABC Columbia: Deputies Investigating Possible Threat at Midlands School
- Encyclopedia Britannica: School Shooting
- WLTX: Shooting in Prosperity, SC
- Google News: Newberry County Threat
- York Daily Record: Parent Made Threat Toward Elementary Employee
- Google Scholar: School Safety
Author: STAFF HERE NEWBERRY
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