Charleston Police Arrest Suspect Following Shots Fired Near Laidley Field
Charleston Police have arrested a 20-year-old man following a frightening incident where multiple gunshots were fired near Laidley Field during a local track meet. The suspect, Jakai Harrison of Piedmont, South Carolina, now faces multiple felony charges after a swift investigation led officers to his vehicle shortly after the shooting.
- Suspect: Jakai Harrison, 20, of Piedmont, SC.
- Charges: Four counts of Wanton Endangerment.
- Location: Piedmont Road, just outside Laidley Field, Charleston, WV.
- Evidence: Video surveillance of a red Chevrolet Impala with distinct yellow air fresheners.
Investigation into the Laidley Field Shooting
The incident occurred around 1:00 p.m. On Saturday, May 2, 2026. Metro 911 dispatchers received multiple calls from witnesses reporting “multiple gunshots outside of the stadium” while a track meet was in progress. According to a criminal complaint filed via WSAZ, police utilized video surveillance to identify the suspect’s vehicle: a red Chevrolet Impala.
Investigators noted a specific detail that helped identify the car—distinct yellow air fresheners hanging from the front mirror. Patrol officers quickly located the vehicle parked in the 1600 block of Mcclung Street. Inside the car was a woman who identified herself as Harrison’s girlfriend.
Suspect’s Account and Arrest
Following his apprehension, Jakai Harrison was transported to the Charleston Police Department for a video interview. During the interrogation, Harrison provided a version of events that suggested he acted in retaliation. He claimed he was at Renaissance Circle collecting $20 from a friend when an unknown individual drove by and brandished a firearm at him.
Harrison admitted to police that the unknown vehicle followed him onto Piedmont Road, at which point he fired multiple shots at the other car. He then confessed to fleeing the scene and tossing the firearm into the river while driving down the boulevard.
Legal Consequences
After consulting with the Kanawha County Prosecutor’s Office, authorities charged Harrison with four counts of Wanton Endangerment. The charges reflect the danger posed to the public, particularly given the proximity to a sporting event attended by athletes and spectators.
Pattern of Violence in Charleston
This incident is part of a series of recent shooting investigations handled by the Charleston Police Department. In mid-April, authorities investigated another shooting on the city’s West Side. On April 16, 2026, a shooting was reported around 10:30 p.m. In the 1600 block of Third Avenue, leaving one person wounded and a suspect at large, as reported by WSAZ.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was arrested in the Laidley Field shooting?
Jakai Harrison, a 20-year-old resident of Piedmont, South Carolina, was arrested and charged in connection with the incident.
What charges is Jakai Harrison facing?
Harrison is charged with four counts of Wanton Endangerment.
Where did the shooting take place?
The shots were fired on Piedmont Road, just outside of Laidley Field in Charleston, West Virginia.
As the legal process unfolds for Jakai Harrison, Charleston authorities continue to monitor public safety and investigate outstanding shooting incidents within the city limits.