Newberry Mourns Loss of Star Athlete Mycheal Edwards-Wallace, 18, Fatally Shot Weeks Before Starting College
The city of Newberry, South Carolina, is mourning the devastating loss of a young life full of promise and potential. 18-year-old Mycheal Edwards-Wallace, a standout high school football player and incoming freshman at Newberry College, was tragically shot and killed in a senseless act of gun violence on the evening of Monday, June 30, 2025—just weeks before he was scheduled to begin his journey as a student-athlete.
💔 A Life Full of Promise Cut Short
Mycheal, known affectionately to friends and family as “Mike,” had recently graduated from Newberry High School, where he earned local fame and admiration as a dynamic wide receiver and defensive back. A two-time All-Region athlete with a reputation for leadership, grit, and heart both on and off the field, he had signed with Newberry College on an athletic scholarship to play football and study kinesiology.
Coaches described him as a “once-in-a-generation” kind of player, but more than that, they remembered him as humble, respectful, and driven.
“Mycheal was the kind of young man every coach dreams of,” said Newberry High head coach Terry Simmons. “He worked hard, respected everyone, and had a smile that could light up the whole sideline. We didn’t just lose a great athlete—we lost a great person.”
🚨 The Shooting
According to the Newberry Police Department, officers responded to reports of shots fired near Drayton Street shortly after 9:15 p.m. on Monday. Upon arrival, they found Edwards-Wallace suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. Emergency medical services rushed him to Newberry County Memorial Hospital, where he was later pronounced dead.
Witnesses told investigators they heard an argument shortly before the gunfire erupted. Authorities believe the incident may have stemmed from a personal dispute, though the exact motive remains under investigation. As of now, no arrests have been made, and police are urging the public to come forward with any information.
“This young man had his whole future ahead of him. We are working tirelessly to ensure that the person or persons responsible are held accountable,” said Newberry Police Chief Kevin Goodman. “This is not just a police matter—it’s a community tragedy.”
🏈 A Community in Mourning
The shock of Mycheal’s death has rippled through the Newberry High School community, Newberry College, and the broader local area. Grief counselors have been made available to students and athletes. A candlelight vigil is planned for later this week at the high school football field—where Mycheal made so many of his lasting memories and inspiring plays.
Newberry College President Dr. Maurice Schuler issued a heartfelt statement expressing condolences:
“We were excited to welcome Mycheal to campus not just for his athletic talents, but for his character and potential as a student and leader. His loss is immeasurable, and we grieve with his family and the community.”
🕊️ Remembering Mycheal
Friends describe Mycheal as deeply loyal, fiercely competitive, and always looking out for others. He was known for mentoring younger players, helping classmates with schoolwork, and volunteering at local youth events. His mother, Tina Wallace, remembered him as a “gentle giant” who dreamed of one day playing in the NFL and giving back to the community that raised him.
“He was more than a football player,” she said tearfully. “He was my baby, my protector, my pride. I just want people to know he mattered.”
🚔 Ongoing Investigation and Call for Justice
The Newberry Police Department, in collaboration with the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED), is actively investigating the shooting. Detectives are canvassing the area for surveillance footage and seeking additional witnesses.
Anyone with information is urged to call the Newberry Police Department at (803) 321-2222 or submit anonymous tips through Crime Stoppers.
🛑 A Grim Reminder
Mycheal’s death is part of a troubling trend of youth gun violence affecting communities across the country. Local leaders and anti-violence advocates are calling for renewed efforts in conflict resolution, community policing, and youth intervention programs.
“We cannot keep losing our young men to senseless violence,” said Pastor Ronald Green of Newberry Missionary Baptist Church. “We must act—not just in grief, but in purpose.”
🕯️ In His Memory
As tributes pour in online and throughout the town, Mycheal Edwards-Wallace is remembered not for how his life ended, but for how he lived—with passion, kindness, and promise.
Funeral arrangements are pending and will be announced by the family in the coming days.