CHERAW – Authorities from the Cheraw Police Department responded to a call on Nov. 26 relating to an alleged vandalism incident at 119 Market St., in which police believe to have occurred during early morning hours.

The building, owned by Jay Hodge, said that he heard about the incident on Thanksgiving evening. He also added that the building was a historical property that was constructed in 1916.

Police reports reflect that shots were allegedly fired at the front window, front door and also the back door of the property, which resulted in damage to the historical building.

“We received the call around 8:45 the next morning after someone reportedly saw the holes in the glass in the front and back areas of the building. The back door glass is heavily shattered. It seems that the shots could have been fired from a pellet rifle because we found some rounds on the ground,” said Cheraw Police Chief Jay Brooks.

PFC Robert Carroll Rhyne, who worked the incident, said, “Upon arriving at the scene, I observed several holes (11) in the doors and front window glass of the building. After further investigation, I also found lead rounds that appeared to be from a pellet rifle, which was on the windowsill and sidewalk area. No apparent damage was seen on the inside, although no key holder was present to allow a thorough investigation on the inside. The case was then turned over to investigations,” said Rhyne.

“Due to the extent of some other issues, we have called in the South Carolina Law Enforcement (SLED) to assist us with this case. We are not sure if alcohol is a factor or not but we are pursuing this with every effort possible to get this case solved,” Brooks added.

The case is still under investigation.