Tragedy in Columbia: Woman Fatally Shot Outside Bojangles, Suspect on the Run

Tragedy Strikes in Columbia: Woman Shot Outside Bojangles

Columbia, South Carolina—A shocking incident unfolded on Thursday, November 16, when gunfire erupted outside a popular Bojangles fast food restaurant located on Harbison Boulevard. The situation turned tragic as 40-year-old Antoinette Michelle Hammonds-Colon was rushed to the hospital with serious injuries after being shot in the upper body. Sadly, officials announced on Friday that she has succumbed to her injuries.

Authorities Respond Quickly

The crisis began around 10 a.m. when police received an emergency call reporting the shooting. Officers arrived at the scene promptly, only to find Hammonds-Colon suffering from a gunshot wound. First responders acted quickly, transporting her to a local hospital, where medical staff worked tirelessly to save her life. Despite their efforts, she was pronounced dead just one day later.

Identifying the Victim

The Lexington County Coroner’s Office, led by Coroner Margaret Fisher, identified Hammonds-Colon as the victim. A tragic loss to her community, she leaves behind family and friends who remember her with love. An autopsy has been scheduled for November 18 at the Medical University of South Carolina in Charleston, in hopes of providing further insight into this heartbreaking event.

Active Investigation Underway

As the community grapples with this shocking event, police are working diligently to uncover the details surrounding the shooting. Officers have indicated that this incident appears to stem from an ongoing dispute between two groups. In light of that, authorities are actively searching for 23-year-old Ja’Quivian Kennerly, who is wanted for multiple charges, including murder. Investigators have encouraged anyone with information regarding his whereabouts to contact Crimestoppers—a call that could help bring justice to Hammonds-Colon’s family.

Public Safety and Community Response

Despite the gravity of the situation, police have characterized the shooting as “isolated,” reassuring the public that there is no immediate danger to the community at large. However, the Columbia Police Department and the Lexington County Coroner’s Office remain on high alert as they continue their investigation into this tragic affair.

Keep Your Eyes and Ears Open

As this story develops, community members are reminded to stay vigilant and report any suspicious activity. The police have made it clear that the safety of Columbia residents is a top priority, and they are relying on the community’s assistance to help bring the perpetrator to justice.

What’s Happening Next?

This story is still unfolding, and new developments may come to light as the investigation continues. Local authorities are working hard to gather all the facts surrounding this dreadful event and will keep the public updated as information becomes available. For everyone in the area, this serves as a sobering reminder of the importance of community safety and the tragic consequences that can arise from violence.

Our thoughts are with the family and friends of Antoinette Michelle Hammonds-Colon during this incredibly difficult time. If you have information regarding the ongoing investigation or know anything about Ja’Quivian Kennerly’s whereabouts, please don’t hesitate to reach out to the authorities.