Thaddaeus Justice Terezakis Obituary, OCONEE COUNTY, S.C. — Thaddaeus Justice Terezakis, 15, of Westminster, South Carolina, has died after being shot in the head at a residence in the Walhalla area. A 33-year-old woman, identified by authorities as Davina Jill Brown, has been arrested in connection with the incident, while another 15-year-old juvenile has been charged with involuntary manslaughter.
According to the Oconee County Sheriff’s Office, deputies and emergency medical personnel responded to a residence on Sherwood Lane near Highlands Highway at approximately 8:28 a.m. Thursday, October 8, after receiving a 911 call reporting that a teenager had accidentally shot his friend while handling a firearm inside the home.
Terezakis was transported to Prisma Health Greenville Memorial Hospital in Greenville, where he later died in the intensive care unit at approximately 12:25 p.m. An autopsy conducted Friday morning confirmed that his death resulted from a gunshot wound to the head. Oconee County Coroner Karl E. Addis classified the manner of death as a homicide.
Investigators believe the juvenile retrieved a 9mm Taurus handgun from beneath a pillow in his bedroom and that the weapon discharged while he was handling it, striking Terezakis. Although authorities believe the shooting was accidental, investigators determined that the juvenile allegedly acted negligently with the firearm. Following consultation with the 10th Circuit Solicitor’s Office, the teenager was charged with involuntary manslaughter. His identity has not been released because of his age.
Brown, of Sherwood Drive in Walhalla, was arrested Friday and booked into the Oconee County Detention Center at approximately 2:32 p.m. According to investigators, she was charged with unlawfully placing a child at risk of harm. An arrest warrant alleges that Brown, who is related to the juvenile and served as his legal custodian, knowingly allowed him to possess or own the handgun without taking appropriate precautions to prevent potential harm.
Authorities have emphasized that the coroner’s classification of the death as a homicide does not, by itself, mean the shooting was intentional. Investigators have maintained that they believe the firearm discharged accidentally, although they allege that negligent handling contributed to the fatal incident. Officials have not announced any additional charges, and the investigation into the circumstances surrounding the shooting and Brown’s alleged role remains ongoing.
The death of Thaddaeus Justice Terezakis has left a life cut short at just 15 years old. While further details about his personal life, achievements and family have not been provided by authorities, his death underscores the devastating consequences that can follow when a young person gains access to a firearm. Heartfelt condolences go out to his family, friends and everyone affected by this tragic loss. May his memory be honored with compassion, and may those grieving his passing find comfort and support during this difficult time.
