GREAT FALLS, SC – A fatal incident occurred in Chester County on Wednesday when a 2-year-old boy was reportedly shot and killed at his home on Washington Street in Great Falls. Although the toddler was swiftly transported to MUSC Medical Center in Lancaster, efforts to save him proved unsuccessful.
Multiple agencies, including Great Falls police and Chester County EMS, initially responded to the home. The South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) is currently in partnership with the Great Falls police to investigate the circumstances surrounding the event.
Great Falls Police Chief, Olen Martin, indicated in a statement that the main thrust of the investigation revolves around how an “unsecured firearm was accessed.” Describing Great Falls as a “tight-knit, small community,” Martin emphasized the deep local grieving for the tragic loss of such a young child.
The boy has been identified by his parents, Marvin Burrell and Malasia Cloud, as Rylin Burrell. Struggling to come to terms with her loss, Cloud said, “It’s like a dream. Like, it’s unreal.” She continued her statement by saying, “My son is dead and he was so innocent.”
Sadly, Rylin’s death coincided with the fifth birthday of his sister, Riley. Parents Burrell and Cloud are now cherishing their brief time with Rylin, remembering him as a unique toddler who loved football and could attentively watch an entire match on his tablet.
While investigations are ongoing, a 7-year-old child has been temporarily placed in emergency protective custody with South Carolina’s Department of Social Services. The Burrell family has confirmed that the shooting took place in a family residence. For those wishing to help with Rylin Burrell’s funeral expenses, the family has set up a Cash Tag on Cash App.