Police Seek Public's Help After Two Wounded in Weekend Shootings

Law enforcement agencies are investigating two separate shootings that broke out at large parties over the weekend — one in Spindale and another in Ellenboro — leaving two people wounded and no arrests.

Spindale: Party Turns Violent Before Police Arrive

Spindale Police Chief Chad Nazelrod said the November 1 shooting at 406 Oakland Road began when a house party turned violent. A fight broke out, someone fired inside the home, and the group later returned, firing more rounds from the roadway with an "ARP" or “AR-style pistol,” police said. No weapons have been recovered. 

“The physical altercation, initial shooting, and then return of the subjects to further shoot into the house happened prior to law enforcement’s arrival,” Nazelrod said in a statement. “As the initial officer arrived and began to approach the residence, several more shots were fired from an unknown location and by an unknown subject, but not towards law enforcement.”

The apartment was hit at least 14 times, and 22 shell casings were recovered from three different firearms. No suspects have been arrested.

Ellenboro: Two Shot at Large Party

On November 2, the Rutherford County Sheriff’s Office responded to another shooting at a large party on Beams Mill Road in Ellenboro. Two people were wounded — one transported by EMS, another by private vehicle — and are now being treated.

Deputies said most partygoers fled before they arrived. Detectives are processing evidence and urging anyone with cell phone or social media footage to come forward.

“Investigators are urging anyone who attended the party—regardless of what county you are from—to cooperate with law enforcement,” Sheriff Aaron Ellenburg said in a statement. “If you have cell phone videos, social media footage (including Snaps), or any information that could assist in this investigation, please contact the Rutherford County Sheriff’s Office at 828-286-2911. Anonymous tips can also be submitted through Rutherford County Crimestoppers at 828-286-TIPS, or through the RCSO App.”

Law enforcement officials are investigating whether the two shootings are related.