Columbia rocked by tragic fast food shooting; victim succumbs to injuries

Columbia in Shock: Fast Food Shooting Claims Life

Columbia, S.C. is reeling from a tragic incident that took place early Thursday morning at a local fast food restaurant. The Bojangles located at 151 Harbison Boulevard became the scene of a shocking shooting that left one woman critically injured and, unfortunately, she has since passed away. The victim, identified by the Lexington County Coroner’s Office as 40-year-old Antoinette Michelle Hammonds-Colon of Columbia, was outside the restaurant when the gunfire erupted.

A Chaotic Morning

Police rushed to the Bojangles after reports of the shooting came in. Upon arrival, they found Hammonds-Colon lying outside the establishment, gravely injured. 🚑 She was immediately taken to an area hospital where doctors worked tirelessly to save her life. Sadly, on Friday afternoon, the police confirmed the heartbreaking news that she had succumbed to her injuries.

Identifying the Suspect

The case has taken a more serious turn, as authorities have now upgraded the charges against the suspect. 23-year-old Ja’Quivian Kennerly has been identified as a person of interest in this tragic case, and multiple charges—including murder—are being leveled against him. It seems that this shooting was not a random act of violence but instead stemmed from an ongoing conflict between two distinct groups. The police have noted that witnesses reported hearing numerous shots fired, indicating that more than one person may have been involved.

Community Impact

The incident has caused quite a stir in the bustling area of Harbison Boulevard, which is known for its busy storefronts and dining options. The shooting led to a temporary closure of the 100 block as law enforcement from both Richland and Lexington counties worked meticulously at the crime scene. 🚔 Local residents and business owners are understandably shaken up, with many expressing concerns about safety and the prevalence of violence in the community.

Police Efforts Underway

Columbia Police are leaving no stone unturned in their efforts to find answers. They are currently examining surveillance footage from nearby cameras and are reaching out to potential witnesses who might have information about the events leading up to the shooting. The authorities have made an appeal for anyone who might have witnessed the incident or who has information regarding Ja’Quivian Kennerly to come forward.

For those with information, the police encourage you to contact Crime Stoppers at 1-888-CRIME-SC or visit the CrimeSC.com website. It’s crucial that we all work together to ensure that such incidents are addressed and that justice is served.

Remembering Antoinette

As the community mourns the loss of Hammonds-Colon, friends and family are undoubtedly coming together to remember her and support one another during this difficult time. Her tragic death serves as a stark reminder of the impact of violence and the importance of community solidarity. ❤️

Stay tuned for updates as this situation develops, and remember, if you see something, say something. Your voice could make a difference in the safety of our community.