ALLENDALE, S.C. () — A heartbreaking loss in Allendale. A well-liked high school student shot and killed — now a local leader is calling for change.

“I’m very upset. I’m hurt. I’m heartbroken. The city is heartbroken,” Allendale Town Councilman Marlon Creech said.

17-year-old Andrey Gadson, known as “Little Dre,” was a senior at Allendale-Fairfax High School.

Councilman Marlon Creech, who also teaches as a CDL (Commercial Driver’s License) instructor at the school, frequently encountered him. “He was well-regarded among his peers. A truly respectful young man. He was advancing quickly and intended to enter the workforce,” he recounted.

Gadson was tragically shot and killed early Sunday morning at a residence on Butler Street in the Kennedy Park area. The South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) is now conducting an investigation. Creech expressed that the news of the shooting devastated him. “I immediately turned to prayer. My heart was shattered. I shed tears because no one should have to lose a son, brother, or loved one to such pointless violence,” he remembered.

The school district brought in extra support — including grief counseling and law enforcement.

Creech also noted that Superintendent Dr. Valerie Cave responded without delay. “She has handled the situation magnificently. Whenever she needs to make every effort, she does it. And this effort will persist for as long as necessary. I am confident, with her guidance, that they will ensure student safety,” he stated.

As for what’s next — Creech says the town is taking steps to stop the violence.

Still, he knows the solution isn’t just about government. “We ask you, we beg of you to speak up the anonymous calls, we can talk to the sheriff, we can talk to the deputy chief, they’ll talk, reach out to me, whomever you need to, to get this information out because this should not go unsolved.”

Creech also says the town is working on long-term fixes — like hiring a police chief and adding more cameras in high-crime areas. But he says they can’t do it alone. If you know something, say something.

A cash reward is available for information that leads to an arrest.