Columbia Community Mourning After Fatal Shooting at Fast Food Restaurant

Columbia in Shock After Fast Food Shooting

In a heartbreaking turn of events, residents of Columbia, South Carolina, are grappling with the tragic news of a shooting that has left the community reeling. The incident occurred early Thursday morning at a bustling Bojangles on Harbison Boulevard, cutting short the life of a 40-year-old woman identified as Antoinette Michelle Hammonds-Colon. Her death has sparked an intense manhunt for the person responsible.

A Disturbing Incident at Bojangles

According to the Columbia Police Department, Hammonds-Colon was shot outside the popular fast food spot, which is often filled with families and locals looking for a hearty meal. Officers quickly arrived on the scene and found her critically injured. Following the emergency response, she was rushed to a nearby hospital, where doctors did their best to save her life. Unfortunately, the Lexington County Coroner’s Office later confirmed that she had succumbed to her injuries on Friday afternoon.

Who’s Responsible?

The hunt for the shooter is currently focused on 23-year-old Ja’Quivian Kennerly. Following Hammonds-Colon’s tragic death, police upgraded his charges to include murder. The authorities suspect that the drama leading to this senseless act of violence stemmed from an ongoing feud between two groups, and it’s believed that multiple people were involved in the chaotic shooting.

Witnesses reported hearing numerous gunshots, sending shockwaves through the busy area, temporarily closing a stretch of Harbison Boulevard as law enforcement officers from both Richland and Lexington counties worked diligently at the scene. The local community is left stunned as they try to make sense of the violence.

Community Reactions

Residents are understandably shaken by the news. “You never think something like this can happen right outside your favorite restaurant,” said one local. Many are expressing their condolences to Hammonds-Colon’s family and friends while holding onto the hope that the authorities can swiftly bring the alleged shooter to justice.

Help the Police!

As the police continue their investigation, they are actively reviewing surveillance footage from nearby cameras and interviewing potential witnesses, hoping to piece together the frightening details of what transpired. They’re encouraging anyone with information about the shooting or the suspect to step forward. The community is reminded that they can report tips anonymously by calling Crime Stoppers at 1-888-CRIME-SC or visiting their website.

A Turn for the Worse

This tragic incident has left a significant mark on the neighborhood, underlining the reality that violence can erupt in even the most family-friendly locations. As residents come together to support one another, many are voicing the need for greater community safety and conflict resolution to prevent similar tragedies in the future.

As Columbia rallies around the memory of Antoinette Michelle Hammonds-Colon, the hope remains that love and understanding can triumph over violence in a community that has seen too much heartbreak.