Nine people were shot dead and five others were injured in a shooting at a shopping center in the South Carolina capital that authorities do not believe was an accidental attack.
Three people who had guns were detained in connection with Saturday afternoon’s shooting at the Columbiana Center, said Colombia Police Chief WH “Skip” Holbrook. He said at least one of the three people had fired.
Police have arrested a 22-year-old man in connection with the shooting.
Chief Holbrooke said one of the three people initially detained by law enforcement as a person of interest remained in police custody and was expected to be charged with illegal pistol carrying.
“We don’t believe it was an accident,” said Chief Holbrooke. “We believe they knew each other and something led to the shooting.
The victims are between 15 and 73 years old. The 73-year-old is the only person who continues to receive medical care, according to police.
Daniel Johnson said he and his family were visiting Alabama and eating at restaurants when they heard gunshots and began to see people fleeing.
Mr Johnson said people were shouting about their children and husbands and knocking down tables in restaurants as they fled.
“Everyone was trying to get out,” Mr Johnson said. “When I went out, you could see inverted prams, people’s phones and keys left. It was kind of a hurry.”
Mr Johnson said he had gathered his wife, daughter and son and started heading for the exit after letting the crowd disperse for a moment.
“My biggest thing was – and not to sound selfish – to make sure our family is okay and to get them out safely, because that’s not something we like to do for Easter weekend,” he said.
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