Charleston, November 12, 2021 - The Charleston Police Department has made an arrest in connection with the fatal shooting that occurred on November 10 at the Meeting Street Circle K in downtown Charleston. The suspect, identified as 26-year-old Tyler Deshayne Heyward of North Charleston, is being held without bond, according to jail records.

The incident took place in the early morning hours when Wesley Francis, a 34-year-old resident of James Island, was found at the gas station suffering from gunshot wounds. Sadly, Francis was pronounced dead at the scene.

Following an intensive investigation that lasted around the clock, the Charleston Police Department apprehended Heyward late on November 11, as mentioned in a news release. Video footage of the shooting and information retrieved from vehicle tag readers aided the police in identifying the vehicle driven by the shooter. Ultimately, the vehicle was traced back to Heyward's residence.

During questioning, Heyward denied shooting anyone but admitted to leaving his home in the early morning hours of November 10 while feeling angry at his girlfriend. Law enforcement authorities discovered a stolen 9mm firearm at Heyward's residence, and casings from 9mm ammunition were recovered at the scene of the shooting, according to an arrest affidavit.

Court records indicate that Heyward's only prior conviction in the Charleston area was a weapon violation in Dorchester County back in 2018.

In response to the arrest, Chief Chito Walker of the Charleston Police Department emphasized their commitment to combatting violence in the community. "There is no tolerance for heinous acts of violence in our community," Chief Walker stated in a press release. He commended the dedication of the detectives involved in the investigation and expressed confidence in their ongoing efforts to bring closure to the case. Chief Walker also acknowledged the profound grief experienced by the victim's family and friends.

Authorities are urging anyone with information related to the ongoing investigation to contact the Charleston police at 843-720-2422 or provide anonymous tips to Lowcountry Crime Stoppers at 843-554-1111.

As the legal proceedings unfold, the Charleston community mourns the loss of Wesley Francis and hopes for justice to prevail in his tragic death.