CHAPIN, S.C. — The Lexington County coroner's office has identified a Neeses man who was shot and later died at the hospital following an incident at a Chapin fast food restaurant on Wednesday afternoon.
Coroner Margaret Fisher announced on Thursday morning that 21-year-old William McArthur Hicks was the victim of the shooting, which happened around 4 p.m. the previous day. Fisher said the victim died of multiple gunshot wounds.
The identification comes a short time after officers announced that the victim had died and that charges against his alleged killer, Warren Bruce Rumph Jr. had been elevated to murder.
Based on a preliminary investigation by the Chapin Police Department, the shooting was the result of an argument between Hicks and Rumph. Hicks was ultimately taken to Prisma Health Richland. Because the victim initially survived the shooting, the charges against Rumph were attempted murder and possession of a weapon during a violent crime.
He is currently being held in the Lexington County Detention Center on the now-elevated charge. Rumph was denied bond when the charges were upgraded. His first court appearance will be March 31
"Our thoughts and prayers go out to the victim's family, friends, and loved ones," the department said in Thursday's statement.
“We are heartbroken over this incident, and our thoughts and prayers go out to our employee and the family during this unimaginable time," Bojangles said in a statement. "The safety of our employees and guests is our top priority, and we are working closely with the police to assist in their investigation. We’re closing the restaurant for the next few days and providing grief counseling to our entire restaurant team.”
"I was outside in the patio area chatting with some people and I heard a lot of sirens and cop cars," said a Chapin resident who wishes to remain anonymous. "It is a small town and a lot of people do know each other and it’s just not a high crime area, so you normally would feel safe. I feel more scared going out in public now because that could happen right in front of me or happen to me, you never know."
The mayor of Chapin said safety continues to be a top priority in the town.
"The town of Chapin is committed to investing in our officers that work each and everyday to keep Chapin a safe place to live and work," Al Koon, Chapin mayor said.
Meanwhile, police are still investigating the incident, now with the assistance of the county coroner's office and the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division.
Anyone with additional information should contact Midlands Crime Stoppers at 1-888-CRIME-SC.