Lee County, SC — Derrick Scott Arrested for Murder After Fatal Shooting at Pilot Truck Stop: A Mother Lost, Her Children Traumatized. On the evening of September 28, 2025, a horrific domestic violence tragedy unfolded at the Pilot Truck Stop on Sumter Highway in Lee County, South Carolina, leaving a mother dead and her children traumatized for life. Derrick Scott Sr., 34, was arrested by the Lee County Sheriff’s Office on charges of murder, unlawful conduct toward a child, and possession of a weapon during a violent crime after he fatally shot his ex-girlfriend in a senseless act of violence.

The incident, which left a community in shock, is a tragic reminder of the dangers of domestic abuse, a reality that too many women face each day. This was no random act of violence; this was a culmination of years of abuse, a cycle that many victims of domestic violence know all too well. Scott’s ex-girlfriend, who had previously survived his violent behavior, had once again tried to escape — but this time, there would be no escape.

The most devastating part of this crime is that the woman’s children were forced to witness the horrific events as their mother was killed before their eyes. These innocent children will now carry the trauma of their mother’s death for the rest of their lives.

A Violent History and a Pattern of Abuse

Derrick Scott Sr. was no stranger to violence. According to the Lee County Sheriff’s Office, Scott had a violent history, including previous charges of abuse and violence toward his ex-girlfriend. He had been arrested multiple times in the past for domestic-related incidents. His ex-girlfriend had been one of the many who bravely spoke out about her experiences, warning people that Scott was abusive and dangerous.

Despite her attempts to escape the abuse, she found herself once again trapped in a dangerous situation with him. She had lived in fear of him for years, and her repeated calls for help had gone unheard. She had told people about the abuse, and yet, each time she tried to break free, Scott would come after her. Tragically, her warnings were not enough to protect her this time.

Scott’s ex-girlfriend had already survived one attack, and in her mind, she likely thought that there was a chance for her to escape this time, to leave the cycle of violence behind. But she was wrong. On that fateful day, her worst fears came true when Scott took her life.

The Fatal Shooting at the Pilot Truck Stop

At approximately 3:30 p.m. on Sunday, September 28, 2025, the Lee County Sheriff’s Office received multiple 911 calls reporting a shooting at the Pilot Truck Stop located along Sumter Highway. Deputies responded immediately, arriving at the scene to find the woman lying lifeless in the parking lot, having suffered multiple gunshot wounds.

It was clear that this was not a random act. The victim was immediately recognized as Derrick Scott’s ex-girlfriend. She had been walking in the parking lot when Scott approached her, pulled out a firearm, and shot her multiple times. Tragically, her children were with her at the time and were forced to witness the murder of their mother.

The Sheriff’s Office quickly identified Scott as the suspect and launched a manhunt. Less than an hour later, he was located and arrested on charges of murder, unlawful conduct toward a child, and possession of a weapon during the commission of a violent crime.

The fact that Scott was arrested so swiftly did not bring comfort to the family members of the victim. The loss of this mother, who had been trying to protect herself and her children, left them in a state of shock and devastation.

The Impact on the Children

Perhaps the most heart-wrenching aspect of this tragedy is that Jessica’s children were forced to witness the murder of their mother. The trauma these children will carry with them for the rest of their lives is immeasurable. In an instant, they lost their mother, and they will likely never forget the horror they witnessed that day.

The children were rushed to safety by witnesses at the scene, and though physically unharmed, they will undoubtedly struggle with the emotional and psychological effects of this violence. The scene of their mother’s death will forever be imprinted in their minds, a painful reminder of the cruelty of domestic violence.

In the aftermath of such trauma, children need extensive support, including counseling and therapy, to help them process their emotions and begin the healing journey. The loss of their mother, coupled with the violence they witnessed, will affect every aspect of their lives, from their emotional development to their relationships and sense of security.

The System’s Failure to Protect Victims of Domestic Violence

This tragedy underscores the many failures within the system that allow domestic violence to continue unchecked. Time and time again, victims of abuse speak out, warning others, but the system fails to protect them.

Jessica’s death was not the result of a single failure, but rather a series of systemic failures. She had tried to leave Derrick Scott before, she had shared her fears with others, and she had even taken legal steps to protect herself. But the laws and systems in place to protect victims of domestic violence often fail to do so.

Her children witnessed their mother’s death because the system failed to take her warnings seriously. The fact that her children had to witness this tragedy highlights just how dangerous an abusive relationship can be, and how often these victims are forced into situations where they can’t escape.

It is critical that society begins to view domestic violence for what it truly is: a pervasive and dangerous epidemic that impacts victims of all ages, backgrounds, and genders. Domestic violence is never “just drama.” It is a deadly, escalating pattern of abuse that can and does result in the loss of life.

The Importance of Believing and Supporting Victims

This incident serves as a painful reminder of why victims of domestic violence stay silent and fearful. When they speak out, when they warn others, it’s not “just drama” — it’s a desperate cry for help. Jessica’s story is not unique, and unfortunately, her tragic death may be the catalyst for others to finally take domestic violence seriously.

Victims of abuse are often silenced by fear, shame, and isolation, and it is crucial that we, as a society, take the time to listen and believe them when they speak out. We must provide them with the support and resources they need to escape abusive relationships safely. For Jessica, it was too late, but we can ensure that her death is not in vain by continuing to raise awareness and advocate for stronger protections for victims.

If You or Someone You Know Is Experiencing Domestic Violence, Help Is Available:

National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-SAFE (7233)

Text “START” to 88788 to get help via text.

These services are critical for anyone facing domestic violence. We cannot afford to ignore the warning signs any longer. Jessica’s death is a tragic reminder of how far-reaching the effects of domestic violence can be, not just for the victims, but for their families and children who are forced to witness such horrors.

A Community in Mourning

The community where Jessica and her children lived is in mourning. The loss of this mother, who had only recently sought a better life for herself and her children, has left a lasting mark on all who knew her.

Local organizations and shelters are already working to offer support to her children and any other victims who may be affected by this tragedy. Counseling and trauma recovery services will be a necessary part of their healing process, as they begin to navigate a world without their mother.

In the wake of Jessica’s death, the community has rallied together, offering condolences and assistance to the family. Local leaders have voiced their anger and frustration over the failure of the system to protect Jessica and her children from this violence. And while no words can undo the trauma, the support of a grieving community can provide some solace in a time of overwhelming loss.

Conclusion: A Call to Action

Jessica Williams’ tragic death is a heartbreaking example of the real dangers of domestic violence. She warned people about the abuse, she spoke up, and she tried to protect herself and her children. But her efforts weren’t enough. Derrick Scott Sr. took her life in front of her children, leaving them with a lifetime of trauma.

We must take action to break the cycle of violence. We must listen to victims, believe them, and provide them with the support they need to escape abusive relationships before it’s too late. The system must evolve to better protect vulnerable individuals, and society must do its part to end the silence surrounding domestic violence.

Jessica’s death, and the trauma her children now carry, is a tragic reminder that domestic violence is never just “drama.” It is real, it is deadly, and it is happening in our communities every day. Share this story, raise awareness, and let’s continue to fight for the safety of every woman, child, and family affected by domestic violence.