Badly disfigured South Carolina murder suspect turns himself in — says he’s innocent because of his injuries

A South Carolina man wanted for murder has surrendered to police, claiming his severe burn injuries make it impossible for him to have committed the crime.

On August 15, 2025, 20-year-old Zaquan Shaquez Jamison turned himself in to authorities in North Charleston after months on the run. Investigators allege Jamison fatally shot 17-year-old Ja’Mereion “Mari” Deangelo Crawford during a January 13 incident at Crawford’s home on Boo Circle in Santee, South Carolina. Police allege Jamison shot at ten other people during the same attack. Jamison’s warrant accuses him of firing 27 rounds into the home.

Authorities called Jamison armed and dangerous. Instead, police took him into custody without incident. After his arrest, authorities later transferred Jamison to the Santee Police Department, where he faces charges of murder, 10 counts of attempted murder, and possession of a weapon during a violent crime.

Jamison’s burn injuries

What has captured national attention is Jamison’s appearance. His face and body are badly burned, and one of his hands is missing, while the other is so damaged it cannot function. In court, Jamison told the judge that his hand is “fractured” and cannot bend or pull a trigger. He stated that his treatment records from the Augusta Burn Center would prove his defense.

Jamison’s injuries date back to an October 2023 car crash. He spent months in recovery, suffering significant disfigurement and loss of mobility. Observers expect that Jamison’s lawyers will argue that his physical condition makes it unlikely — if not impossible — that he could have carried out the January shooting.

Authorities are currently holding Jamison at the Santee Police Department, and he could face a potential life sentence if convicted. Prosecutors are still in the early stages of the case, and the court has not set a trial date. Prosecutors have not publicly addressed his claim that his injuries prevent him from using a firearm.

The unusual defense raises complex legal and medical questions. Can someone with profound physical disabilities carry out a mass shooting? Jamison’s case will likely hinge on forensic evidence, eyewitness accounts, and medical testimony about his injuries.

Beyond the serious charges, Jamison’s dramatic appearance and defense have made the case widely discussed online. The combination of violent crime allegations and severe disfigurement poses a unique challenge for investigators, attorneys, and jurors.

For now, Jamison remains behind bars as the legal system works to determine whether his claims of innocence — and physical incapacity — hold up in court.