Tragic Events Unfold After Domestic Shooting in Columbia
Columbia, S.C. – A domestic-related shooting led to a pursuit and a tragic crash on Garners Ferry Road, resulting in the deaths of two individuals. The incident began around 11:00 a.m. on March 1st at the Cross Hill Apartments on Blossom Street, where Columbia Police Department (CPD) officers responded to a report of a domestic situation involving a weapon.
Upon arrival, officers learned that a female victim had sustained a non-life-threatening gunshot wound to her lower body. According to authorities, the suspected shooter, a male, fled the scene after the shooting. He subsequently drove the victim to a nearby hospital for treatment.
Pursuit and Collision
Once at the hospital, the suspect reportedly made verbal threats to return to the victim’s home and harm juveniles there, as well as himself. This concerning demeanor led officers to locate the suspect’s vehicle parked behind a business on Leesburg Road. In conjunction with the Richland County Sheriff’s Department (RCSD), CPD officers attempted to apprehend the suspect.
However, the suspect evaded authorities, resulting in a multi-vehicle collision at the intersection of Hazelwood and Garners Ferry Roads. The crash resulted in a fatal outcome, killing a male driver and his dog. Investigators from the South Carolina Highway Patrol’s Major Accident Investigation Team (MAIT) are now looking into the details of the crash.
Investigation of the Aftermath
Following the collision, officers detained the suspect, who was found at the scene. Preliminary investigations revealed that he likely shot himself in the lower body while in his vehicle prior to the crash. Emergency responders transported the suspect to a local hospital, where he later succumbed to his injuries.
Law enforcement officials seized the gun from the suspect’s vehicle during their investigation at the crash site. It has also been confirmed that the suspect was live streaming his actions during the initial police pursuit, raising further questions about the events leading to this tragic day.
Coroner’s Investigation
The Richland County Coroner’s Office is collaborating with CPD to identify the deceased individuals involved in this incident. As the investigation continues, detectives are piecing together the events that transpired, aiming for a comprehensive understanding of this violent incident.
Residents in the area are left shaken by the events that unfolded so close to home. The importance of addressing domestic violence has been underscored, and authorities are urging anyone in similar situations to seek help before resorting to violence.
As more details emerge, the community remains hopeful for preventive measures that can help avoid such incidents in the future. This tragic episode serves as a reminder of the urgent need for resources to address emotional and psychological distress within households.
