Community Grapples with Trauma as Trial for Suspect in Columbiana Centre Mall Mass Shooting Continues

COLUMBIA, S.C. – A Community Reflects on the Aftermath of a Tragic Mass Shooting

Two and a half years after the horrific events that unfolded at the Columbiana Centre Mall during Easter weekend, the ongoing trial of one of the accused has reignited conversations surrounding trauma, recovery, and the implications of gun violence.

At the heart of this trial is Jewayne Price, a 24-year-old man charged in the mass shooting that left more than a dozen people injured and claimed the lives of nine individuals. Victims are bravely coming forward to testify about their devastating experiences and the scars—both physical and emotional—that they carry with them.

Voices of the Innocent

On the stand, victims shared harrowing accounts of that fateful day. One victim, who has undergone several surgeries due to her injuries, revealed, “I still have lingering digestive problems because of that.” It’s a testament to the fact that the repercussions of gun violence extend far beyond the immediate injuries, affecting daily life and overall well-being.

Another victim, a courageous 16-year-old girl, recounted the moments after being shot. “I called my dad and I said that I got shot, and I asked him if I was going to die,” she said, tears nearly spilling from her eyes. “And I told him to get there as fast as he could, and then the line went dead. I’m not sure how.” Her story illustrates the sheer panic and fear that so many have felt since that day, with many choosing not to return to school due to their overwhelming anxiety.

A Disputed Narrative

During the pre-trial hearings, Price defended his actions, claiming he was acting in self-defense when he observed his co-defendants, Amari Smith and Marquise Robinson. His legal team argued that under South Carolina’s Stand Your Ground law, he should be immune from prosecution. However, Circuit Court Judge Walton McLeod disagreed, allowing the trial to proceed.

What Really Happened at the Mall?

The prosecution has presented compelling evidence and testimonies during the trial. A crime scene reconstruction expert from the Lexington County Sheriff’s Department, Tom Smith, provided crucial details about the incident. He explained that Price was the first to fire his weapon, suggesting that he was the aggressor in the chaotic mall environment.

As the courtroom watched surveillance footage, the prosecution painted an alarming picture. “You actually see him step towards Robinson?” asked Solicitor Rick Hubbard. Smith confirmed, illustrating how Price moved forward while holding his firearm aimed at Robinson. “While he does that, what are we seeing in his hand?” Hubbard pressed. “He has his firearm drawn out,” Smith definitively responded.

Most notably, evidence demonstrated that at least three innocent bystanders were also injured due to Price’s gunfire. The prosecution argues that since this was a case of mutual combat, all defendants bear responsibility for the injuries inflicted on the nine victims caught in the crossfire.

The Defense Perspective

On the other side, the defense is vigorously arguing for Price’s innocence. One of Price’s attorneys, Todd Rutherford, passionately emphasized the notion of self-defense, conducting demonstrations in the courtroom to drive home their point. They highlighted that Price did not run away but instead continued to engage with his perceived threats.

As the trial heads into its later stages, with closing arguments set for Thursday morning, the community remains on edge, reflecting on the events of two and a half years ago.

A Long Road Ahead

With Price’s trial winding down, the impending trials of his co-defendants, Smith and Robinson, loom large, adding to the larger conversation about gun violence and public safety that continues to resonate in Columbia and beyond. The stories of the victims serve as a somber reminder that the consequences of such actions linger long after the shots are fired, creating a lasting impact on families, friends, and the entire community.