A fatal shooting on January 6, 2026, resulted in the death of Thomas Raheem, age 32, of Spartanburg, South Carolina. The incident occurred at a retail establishment located at 1944 East Main Street, known as The Burg Tobacco and Vape. This event was one of several unrelated homicides reported in the municipality within a brief period, generating community concern.
Spartanburg Police Department officers were dispatched to the location at approximately 7:00 p.m. following a report of a physical altercation. As units arrived in the vicinity, the call was upgraded to reflect shots fired, prompting an immediate high-priority response protocol.
Upon reaching the scene, officers observed a dark-colored Honda Accord departing the area. The vehicle was intercepted and its two occupants—an 18-year-old male and a 16-year-old male—were detained for questioning. Inside the establishment, officers located Mr. Raheem deceased, having sustained multiple thoracic gunshot wounds. Emergency medical efforts were initiated but proved unsuccessful. The Spartanburg County Coroner’s Office later determined the manner of death to be homicide.
Preliminary investigation indicates the altercation originated between Mr. Raheem, a customer, and the 18-year-old detainee, identified as Jayvion Deqwan Legg. The conflict reportedly escalated from a verbal dispute to a physical confrontation within the store.
The proprietor, who was present during the incident, was not injured and provided initial statements to investigators. The 16-year-old vehicle occupant was also unharmed. Investigative focus centered on the store interior, where the conflict and shooting occurred in proximity.
Mr. Legg was subsequently taken into custody and has been charged with murder and possession of a weapon during the commission of a violent crime. Bond was denied at his initial court appearance. The interception of the vehicle facilitated the preservation of evidence and initial statements.
A senior police official characterized the incident as a tragic loss of life resulting from an intensified personal dispute. The investigation remains active.
