Two Injured, One Arrested in Richland County Walmart Shooting
Details of the Event
RICHLAND COUNTY, S.C. – A chaotic scene unfolded at a Walmart in Richland County on Sunday night as gunfire shattered the quiet routine of shopping. On July 29, authorities confirmed that the shooting resulted in two people being injured and one person arrested. The apprehended suspect is Matthew Hermz, 24, who faces serious charges including manufacturing/possession of a controlled substance with the intention to distribute.
The harrowing incident came to pass in the late evening, approximately 9 pm at the Walmart located on Killian Road. On the scene, authorities discovered a vehicle with the passenger-side door ajar, presenting a visible bag of green “plant-like material” on the floorboard and another by the door, as detailed in the incident report. Indicative of the gunfire exchanged, the vehicle’s rear driver-side window was shattered, and the driver’s side was peppered with bullet holes.
Investigation Progress
Police also discovered a malfunctioned Glock pistol lying on the ground almost six feet from the vehicle. The suspect, Hermz, was identified by a witness at the scene. He was amongst the injured, from a gunshot wound to the forearm. Authorities promptly transported Hermz to a local hospital for treatment before being booked into the Alvin S. Glenn Detention Center.
A second person was identified and detained by authorities; their role in the incident, if any, remains unclear. Another victim later arrived at a local hospital with injuries described as non-life-threatening by medical personnel.
Call for Public Assistance
In the search for truth, the incident is still under active investigation. The Richland County Sheriff’s Department is urging those with any information related to the Walmart shooting, no matter how insignificant it may seem, to come forward. They can be contacted directly or information can be submitted anonymously through the 888-CRIME-SC hotline.
Community Impact
Echoes of the shots fired in the Walmart reverberate in the Richland County community. The incident adds to the ongoing concern over public safety in shared spaces. The impact of this incident on the community and its perceptions of safety remain to be seen. Nevertheless, the swift action of the Richland County Sheriff’s Department underscores their commitment to public safety and justice in the face of criminal activity.
