Conway Shooting – 21-Year-Old Suspect Surrenders on Attempted Murder Charges After Richland County Deputy Shootout

A 21-year-old suspect wanted in connection with a violent shootout involving Richland County Sheriff’s Department deputies has turned himself in to authorities, marking a significant development in an ongoing investigation into a series of retaliatory shootings that terrorized neighborhoods near Columbia, South Carolina. The suspect, Tyjae Miller, had been wanted on multiple felony charges stemming from the June 4 exchange of gunfire that left one suspect dead and placed three deputies in extreme danger.

According to the Richland County Sheriff’s Department (RCSD), Miller surrendered to investigators after law enforcement spent weeks searching for him. He is charged with three counts of attempted murder, aggravated breach of peace, and possession of a weapon during a violent crime. Authorities allege Miller was among a group of suspects who opened fire on deputies after they tracked them to a residence in the Legend Oaks neighborhood during an investigation into earlier shootings.

The investigation began during the early morning hours of June 4, 2026, when deputies responded to reports of a drive-by shooting in the 200 block of Sagamore Road. Sheriff Leon Lott said investigators determined that one group fired on another in what appeared to be a retaliatory dispute. Shortly afterward, another shooting occurred on Spring Oak Lane, where homes and vehicles were struck by gunfire, although no residents were injured.

As deputies investigated the Spring Oak Lane shooting, a K-9 team began tracking possible suspects. Around 2:20 a.m., the police dog led deputies to a home on Legends Oak Drive, where several individuals were gathered outside. Investigators say that as deputies identified themselves and gave commands, multiple suspects immediately opened fire. A fierce exchange of gunfire followed, with Sheriff Lott describing the incident as one of the most dangerous confrontations his department has faced in years.

Authorities reported that more than 200 shell casings were recovered from the scene and 17 firearms were seized during the investigation. Sheriff Lott remarked that the volume and type of weapons involved resembled those seen in military conflicts, underscoring the severity of the violence deputies encountered. Despite the intense gunfire, all three deputies survived without fatal injuries, a result Lott described as extraordinary.

One suspect, Qwa’Maurie Deaver, 18, was fatally shot during the confrontation. Investigators have identified four additional suspects connected to the incident. Before Miller’s surrender, Sireon Beaufort, 19, Journey Lindsey, 19, and a 16-year-old juvenile had already been arrested. Like Miller, they each face three counts of attempted murder, aggravated breach of peace, and possession of a weapon during a violent crime. All three were denied bond following their arrests.

Investigators believe the violence stemmed from escalating retaliation between rival groups. According to RCSD, evidence indicates one group was responsible for the initial drive-by shooting on Sagamore Road, while another group carried out the retaliatory shooting on Spring Oak Lane before the encounter with deputies at Legends Oak Drive. Detectives continue reviewing forensic evidence, surveillance footage, witness statements, and ballistic analyses to determine each suspect’s role in the shootings.

Sheriff Lott has also warned that anyone who assisted Miller while he was evading capture could face criminal charges. During earlier press conferences, investigators stated they believed friends or family members were helping conceal his whereabouts. Authorities continue to encourage anyone with information related to the shootings to contact the Richland County Sheriff’s Department or submit anonymous tips through Crime Stoppers.

With Miller now in custody, investigators say the case remains active as they continue pursuing additional leads and reviewing evidence connected to the retaliatory shootings. The RCSD has emphasized its commitment to holding everyone involved accountable while recognizing the bravery of the deputies who survived one of the largest and most complex crime scenes the department has investigated in recent years.