North Charleston Family Seeks Justice After Tragic Death of Public Works Employee
In North Charleston, South Carolina, the heart-wrenching story of Da’twan Gatling continues to unfold as his family grapples with the aftermath of his untimely death. Just three months ago, on July 18, 2023, the 26-year-old Public Works employee lost his life to a gunshot wound, sending shockwaves through the community and leaving his loved ones searching for answers and justice.
A Devoted Public Servant Taken Too Soon
Da’twan Gatling was not just a dedicated worker; he was a loving father to five children and known for his warm personality. Family members describe him as a devoted public servant, always ready with a smile and willing to lend a hand. His aunt, Kinya Gatling Middleton, shared the profound impact of his loss, stating, “It feels like a crime was committed against the family as a whole.”
The Tragic Incident
On the day of the incident, Gatling was reportedly driving a sanitation truck on his regular route when he was shot in the Bayfield Drive area. The horrifying event caused the truck to crash into a tree along Dorchester Road, leading to his tragic demise. In the wake of this devastating incident, police have charged 24-year-old Tyrell Lamont Smith with murder and possession of a weapon during a violent crime.
Fleeing Justice
Smith’s actions following the shooting have raised significant concerns. After the incident, he fled South Carolina and was eventually apprehended by the U.S. Marshals Task Force in New York on August 1. However, despite being in custody, Smith has yet to be extradited back to South Carolina, leaving Da’twan’s family feeling frustrated and anxious.
As of now, the extradition process is still ongoing, with no clear timeline for when Smith will be brought back to face the charges against him. “It’s just a battle to get justice for someone that’s not here,” Middleton expressed, highlighting the emotional toll this delay has had on the family.
Family’s Concerns Over Extradition Process
The lengthy extradition process has led the Gatling family to feel that justice is being delayed. Middleton noted, “It just behooves me that it’s just not moving faster because I think that this is a very serious crime.” She passionately emphasized the need for Smith to face not only the law but also the family and community affected by his actions.
Past History of Violence
Adding to the family’s distress is Smith’s troubling criminal history. Beginning in 2017, he has faced multiple charges, including domestic violence, attempted murder, strong-arm robbery, and possession of a stolen firearm. Middleton shared her frustration, stating, “If he had been prosecuted or held accountable for any previous acts, my nephew would be here today.” The family believes that a more stringent approach to handling such violent offenders could have potentially saved Da’twan’s life.
A Call for Justice
The call for accountability is ringing loud and clear from Gatling’s family. They want not just justice for Da’twan but also a commitment from the community to ensure that such incidents are prevented in the future. Middleton’s heartfelt plea resonates deeply: “We just want to see that they care enough to get that person back here, to make him face and be accountable for what he did.”
Ongoing Grief and the Fight for Justice
As the Gatling family continues to navigate the grieving process, they remain hopeful that justice will ultimately prevail. The community’s support, they feel, is crucial in this time of uncertainty. “That would be a great help to us to show that Da’twan matters,” said Middleton, expressing a desire for recognition of the tragic loss they’ve endured.
In North Charleston, where Da’twan was an active and cherished member of the community, his memory lives on. His tragic story serves as a reminder of the importance of community, accountability, and the relentless pursuit of justice. As the family waits for answers, they hold onto hope that their cries for justice will not go unheard.
