Police Continue Investigations After Shooting and Stabbing Incident at South Carolina Mosque
ROCK HILL, S.C. – Investigative authorities are persistently following leads following a shocking incident that occurred at the Islamic Center of South Carolina, situated near downtown Rock Hill. Reports indicate that a man was stabbed on the mosque premises, only to be followed by the assailant being shot by an armed security guard.
Unbeknownst to them, visitors at the Islamic Center of South Carolina were about to have their peaceful prayer services disrupted by violent acts. In an unprecedented event, a man wielding a knife was reported to be on-site, instilling fear and panic amongst congregants.
Details of The Incident
Travaughn West, a 27-year-old man, was identified as the knifeman by the local police. Official records state that West was in the mosque shortly after prayer service ended on Friday afternoon. It is alleged that he was lying in wait for a forty-four-year-old man, holding a menacing four-inch blade in his hand.
Subsequent events saw West stabbing at the man. “He stabbed the other brother twice,” clarified Muhammad Khanani, a founding board member of the Islamic Center of South Carolina, who was present during the incident.
As havoc ensued, an armed security guard was seen approaching the escalating situation. It was reported that West maintained his aggressive stance even as others gathered in the lobby area. This prompted the security guard to pull out his firearm and open fire at West. “The guy waved his knife at the guard, who then fired one shot, hitting him,” Khanani recounted.
The Suspect’s Capture
After being shot, West reportedly rushed towards a nearby bathroom before running out of the premises and onto the street. Alerted by people from the mosque, a patrol car nearby quickly took up pursuit. West was apprehended about a block away by the chasing authorities.
Following capture, West is being accused of assault and battery of a high and aggravated nature and is also charged with possession of a knife during a crime of violence. Both the stabbing victim and the assailant are in stable condition and are expected to recover.
Community Reaction
The shocking turn of events has left local residents in disbelief. “You hear it all over the world, but this is close to home, so it’s really mind-blowing to me,” shared Warren Moffit, a neighbour. Police have not speculated on the motives behind the suspect’s violent act, thousands of questions remain unanswered.
“Anytime you see something like this…you just got to be careful,” Island admonishes.
Despite the horrifying incident, worshippers are adamant that their faith advocates for forgiveness, and that is what they intend to follow.
