GADSDEN, S.C. — The tight-knit community of Gadsden is grieving the tragic loss of 11-year-old Travis Kelley, whose life was cut short on October 1, 2025, following a heartbreaking incident on Bluff Road near Blackberry Road.

The Richland County Coroner’s Office identified Travis as the young victim, with Coroner Gary Rutherford offering a somber reflection: “The death of a child is not just a family’s tragedy—it is a heartbreak that ripples through our entire community. To know that a child left home and will not be returning leaves a pain that words cannot fully express.”

For family, friends, and neighbors, Travis was more than a child—he was a source of joy and light. Known for his radiant smile, playful spirit, and boundless curiosity, he touched the lives of many in his short years. Classmates and friends recall his kindness and energy, while his family remembers a beloved son and grandson whose laughter filled their home.

The loss of Travis has left his family shattered. To lose a child is a sorrow no words can capture, but in their grief, the Gadsden community has rallied with compassion, prayers, and love. Vigils are being planned to honor his memory and give residents a chance to mourn together.

Though his life ended far too soon, Travis’s legacy will endure. His warmth, his laughter, and the love he shared will remain in the hearts of those who knew him. The tragedy serves as a sobering reminder of life’s fragility and the importance of treasuring every moment.

As Gadsden mourns, the community remembers Travis not for the circumstances of his passing, but for the joy he brought in his 11 precious years. His spirit will live on as a beacon of love, unity, and compassion.

Rest in peace, Travis—you were deeply loved, and your light will never be forgotten.