Rock Hill Police Officer Involved in Fatal Shooting During Armed Robbery at Smoke Shop

Rock Hill Police Officer Involved in Shooting at Local Smoke Shop

The city of Rock Hill, South Carolina, experienced a tragic incident Wednesday night, December 4, as police responded to an armed robbery at Budiman’s Smokeshop & Art Gallery located on Cherry Road. The event culminated in a shooting that involved a police officer and prompted an investigation by the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division.

What Happened:

At approximately 9:45 p.m., officers from the Rock Hill Police Department arrived at the smoke shop after reports of a robbery. Upon entering the establishment, they discovered two individuals deceased inside: a customer identified as Emad Thabet Saadalla and an employee named Celci Johnson. A third individual, who was an injured female, was rapidly taken to a nearby hospital for medical care.

The Chase:

As the police were addressing the situation inside the smoke shop, they encountered a fourth individual, identified as 28-year-old Zachary East Elias. Elias, armed at the scene, attempted to flee in a Dodge pickup truck. The police pursued him as he drove away from the smoke shop.

The chase ended when Elias crashed his vehicle on Cherry Road, near the Catawba River. During this encounter, it has been reported that an officer fired their weapon but did not strike Elias. Following the crash, Elias sustained injuries and required medical attention.

Criminal Charges:

Authorities have charged Elias with multiple offenses, including two counts of murder, two counts of attempted murder, and possession of a weapon during a violent crime. The investigation into the actions of the police officer involved in the shooting as well as the overall circumstances surrounding the incident continues.

Community Response:

The Rock Hill community has begun to rally behind the affected families, with efforts already underway to support the six children left behind after the losses suffered in this incident. Fundraisers and community support initiatives are being organized to aid those impacted.

Ongoing Investigation:

The South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) has been brought in to conduct a thorough investigation of the events that transpired on that night, particularly focusing on the officer-involved shooting. The situation remains under investigation as authorities piece together the events leading to this tragic outcome.

The incident has sparked conversations within the community regarding public safety and emergency response as more details are expected to emerge from the ongoing investigation. Community members are left grappling with the shocking realities of the violence that unfolded in their neighborhood.

Looking Ahead:

As this story develops, local and state authorities are working together to ensure a clear understanding of what transpired and the necessary steps moving forward. Residents and family members of those affected by the shooting will likely be seeking answers and closure as they navigate the aftermath of this devastating event.