Rock Hill Grieves After Smoke Shop Shooting Leaves Two Dead
Rock Hill is reeling from a tragic incident that occurred on Wednesday night when two people were killed and another was wounded in a shooting at Budimans’ Smoke Shop and Art Gallery. According to police, the suspect, identified as Zachary East Elias, 28, from Columbia, opened fire just hours after purchasing a psychedelic substance from the store.
What Happened
In the chaotic moments of the shooting, which took place around 9:40 p.m., Elias reportedly shot two women and a man, resulting in the deaths of Celci Johnson, 27, who was an employee at the smoke shop, and Emad Thabet Saadalla, 49, said to be a customer. A third woman sustained injuries that have yet to be detailed and has not been publicly identified. In a desperate bid to escape the situation, another customer fled through a back exit.
Details from the Scene
The incident, which was captured on the store’s surveillance cameras, reveals a shocking act of violence. Detective Robert Smith stated in court that Elias’s actions were “deliberate, violent, and without justification.” Shortly after the shooting, Elias searched for more victims in a back room of the shop while reportedly making incoherent statements.
During the court proceedings, it was revealed that Elias had consumed a psychedelic substance prior to the shooting. The effects of this substance may have contributed to his state during the incident, according to the testimony presented. However, no motive has been disclosed as part of the ongoing investigation.
Elias’s Capture
After the shooting, Elias attempted to flee in a vehicle but crashed on U.S. 21 at the Catawba River bridge, located north of Interstate 77. Police reports indicate that officers who responded first confronted him upon exiting his wrecked car. In a critical moment, an officer discharged a firearm at Elias, but the shot did not hit him.
After the near-fatal confrontation, officers were able to subdue Elias using a stun gun, ultimately taking him into custody. He has been charged with two counts of murder, two counts of attempted murder, and possession of a weapon during a violent crime.
Community Reaction
Family members of the victims expressed their deep sorrow and devastation to the court, reflecting the profound impact of the tragedy on the community. With the lives of two individuals lost and another in critical condition, Rock Hill is coming to grips with this horrific act of violence.
Next Steps
Throughout the ongoing investigation, the Rock Hill Police Department has reached out to the State Law Enforcement Division for an independent inquiry into the officer-involved shooting during Elias’s capture. As of now, Elias remains in custody at the York County jail, with bail being denied by Judge Sara Russell.
The unforeseen violence at Budimans’ Smoke Shop has raised questions about safety and mental health impacts from psychedelic substances, as the investigation continues to uncover the circumstances surrounding this tragic event. Community leaders and law enforcement are now working to restore a sense of security in Rock Hill as they process the aftermath of this devastating incident.
