Thad Terezakis Obituary, WALHALLA, S.C. — Thad Terezakis, 15, of Westminster, South Carolina, has died after suffering a gunshot wound to the head in an apparent accidental shooting at a residence in Oconee County on Thursday morning, October 8, 2026, according to information provided by local authorities.
The Oconee County Coroner’s Office reported that Thad died at approximately 12:25 p.m. in the intensive care unit at Prisma Health Greenville Memorial Hospital in Greenville. He was transported for emergency medical treatment after the shooting but later succumbed to his injuries.
According to the Oconee County Sheriff’s Office, the incident was reported at approximately 8:28 a.m. Thursday after the Oconee County E-911 Communications Center received a call about a shooting at a residence on Sherwood Lane, near Highlands Highway in the Walhalla area.
Preliminary information provided to dispatch indicated that one teenager was handling or moving a firearm inside the residence when it reportedly discharged, striking another teenager in the head. The injured teenager was described in the initial information as a friend of the person handling the firearm. Authorities have characterized the shooting as apparently accidental based on the preliminary details.
Deputies from the Sheriff’s Office Uniform Patrol Bureau and investigators from its Criminal Investigations Bureau responded to the residence. Emergency personnel also arrived to assist Thad before he was transported to a hospital for treatment. He was later taken to Prisma Health Greenville Memorial Hospital, where he died several hours after the incident.
The Oconee County Coroner’s Office said an autopsy would be ordered to assist investigators in determining the circumstances surrounding Thad’s death. The Sheriff’s Office continues to investigate the shooting, and officials have not released further details about how the firearm discharged. Because the individuals involved are minors, authorities said they would withhold information that could directly or indirectly identify either teenager.
Thad’s death at just 15 years old is a tragic loss for those who knew him. While additional information about his life, family, school activities and personal achievements has not been provided, his passing has prompted a reminder of how devastating firearm incidents can be, particularly when young people are involved.
As the investigation continues, condolences go out to Thad’s family, friends and everyone affected by his death. May his memory be honored with compassion and care, and may those grieving his loss find comfort and support during this difficult time.