News Summary
Jewayne M. Price has been sentenced to 35 years in prison for his involvement in a shooting at the Columbiana Centre Mall, impacting nine innocent bystanders. The April 16, 2022 incident raised concerns about public safety and firearm regulations in Columbia, SC, as the community grapples with the emotional aftermath of the violence.
Columbia Residents Reel from Columbiana Mall Shooting Sentencing
Leading to 35-Year Imprisonment for Jewayne Price
In a case that has shaken the community of Columbia, South Carolina, Jewayne M. Price, a 25-year-old man, has been sentenced to 35 years in prison for his role in a devastating shooting incident at the Columbiana Centre Mall. On that fateful day, April 16, 2022, families were out enjoying their Easter weekend, only to find themselves caught in a violence that left nine innocent bystanders injured.
Details of the Encounter
The court learned that Price is facing two counts of attempted murder, alongside nine counts of assault and battery of a high and aggravated nature. The shooting unfolded as Price entered the busy mall carrying a concealed weapon, despite there being clear signs prohibiting such firearms on the premises. The incident began when Price became embroiled in a dispute with two men, Amari Smith and Marquise Robinson, which had its roots in a previous confrontation dating back to a shooting in 2018.
Eye-witness accounts and surveillance footage provided a chilling glimpse into the chaos that ensued. The video revealed Price retrieving a 9mm firearm and aiming it at Robinson, which resulted in a barrage of gunfire. A staggering total of 17 rounds were discharged, with 11 rounds traced back to Price’s weapon alone. Miraculously, neither Price, Smith, nor Robinson sustained injuries; however, their reckless actions had dire consequences for the innocent bystanders nearby.
Victims and Their Stories
The injury toll from the shooting was significant. Among the victims was a 73-year-old woman, whose condition remained critical for some time. There was also a 16-year-old who was shot in the back, enduring severe trauma from the experience. Additional victims suffered various injuries such as broken bones and cuts while desperately attempting to flee the scene of terror. The aftermath of this attack has left many families scarred, and the emotional toll continues to linger as they deal with the shocking reality of that day.
The Court’s Response
During the sentencing, Judge Walton McLeod made it clear that a strong prison sentence was necessary to deter future violence in public spaces. The courtroom was filled with emotional statements from victims who described the lasting effects of the shooting on their lives. It was a poignant reminder of the fragility of safety in what should be a peaceful setting.
Co-Defendants and Ongoing Proceedings
While Jewayne Price’s fate has been sealed, his co-defendants are also facing the music. Smith has pled guilty to charges of attempted murder and assault, with his sentencing still pending. Similarly, Robinson has also faced charges linked to the incident. The community waits to see what penalties will be doled out to these individuals who contributed to the widespread fear and violence.
Next Steps for Jewayne Price
Now that the court has handed down its sentence, Price is set to begin his time at the South Carolina Department of Corrections. This case has served as a wake-up call for many in Columbia, illustrating the critical need for stricter regulations concerning firearms and greater vigilance in public areas.
As the scars of that traumatic day remain fresh in the minds of the community, Columbia holds its breath, hoping that justice serves as a turning point in enhancing public safety measures and preventing similar incidents in the future.
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Additional Resources
- WLTX: South Carolina Mall Shooting Verdict
- ABC Columbia: Man Sentenced for Columbiana Mall Shooting
- WIS TV: Midlands Man Sentenced to 35 Years for Mall Shooting
- WLTX: Man Sentenced to 35 Years Following Columbiana Mall Shooting
- The State: Columbiana Mall Shooting Updates
