AIKEN, S.C. (WJBF) — Four people are dead and one injured in an apparent murder-suicide in Aiken.
“It’s really a shock, honestly,” neighbor Jeremy Cruze told NewsChannel 6’s Aiken Bureau Chief Shawn Cabbagestalk about the incident.
That shock, after four people were found dead in The Boundary at Silver Bluff Apartments in Aiken.
“I’ve seen that family walking their dog when I’ve been out with my dogs and my wife has seen them. They’re always really nice,” Cruze added.
He has lived in the apartment complex for about five years. He says this is not typical of their neighborhood. “It’s been real quiet. Everyone here is really nice. They are really polite. The ones you don’t know, they just keep to themselves. On the weekends, you might see a cop car if some people are partying too loud — that’s the most we’ve ever experienced out here,” he shared.
According to the coroner, John Seward, Sr., 55, Mary Ann Powlas, 50, was killed. Their daughter, 27-year-old Erica Seward was killed. Another family member was injured. At last check, he was in critical condition.
Jonathan has been identified as the shooter in the death of his parents and sister. He died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound. Meanwhile, one other person was able to escape unharmed. “I just saw a million police cars out here. That’s said we were standing outside. I was looking and everything,” neighbor Denise added. She did not provide her last name.
Authorities from public safety and sled descended on the area where the shooting took place. The state investigators were seen going in and coming out of apartment 107 of the J building gathering evidence. The scene wrapped up early afternoon.
Shawn on tape: Are you concerned for your safety?
Denise: “No … no”
Autopsies are scheduled for all victims and the suspect.