COLUMBIA, S.C. — Deputies are actively searching for more individuals involved in a dramatic shootout at a northeast Richland County community pool, which occurred in broad daylight.
The incident has left the community in shock, with many residents questioning their safety. Richland County Sheriff Leon Lott released surveillance video earlier today, showing the chaotic moments as they unfolded.
Local resident Osvaldo Mallon shared his disbelief.
"I was like, holy crap. You could call it a shootout because that's what it was," he said.
During a press conference on Thursday morning, Lott showed a video depicting the chaos that ensued after multiple people opened fire near the pool.
Deputies have recovered 75 shell casings of various calibers. The investigation has revealed that multiple shooters were involved, with approximately 70 to 100 children present around the pool, many of whom did not reside in the community.
Sheriff Lott displayed one of The weapons recovered, noting it had an illegal modification that allowed it to fire multiple bullets with a single trigger squeeze.
Despite the extensive gunfire, only one person sustained minor injuries.
Two suspects, including a 17-year-old, have been arrested, but additional charges may follow.
Sheriff Lott emphasized the community's role in preventing such incidents.
"If you've got a teenager go search their room, go search their cars, go search their backpacks, find the guns they've got," Lott said. "That's you're responsibility because if you don't your son may be that next picture I show up here, or you're son or daughter may be the one I'm talking about that's dead."
Courtney McQueen, who lives near the pool, recounted the terrifying experience for his wife and daughter while he was traveling.
"She had got herself and my daughter down in a tub," McQueen said. "We took a shot to our garage; it came through two walls, and its final destination was in my office."
Residents expressed frustration over the recurring violence. McQueen suggested drastic measures.
"I think they should drain this water, throw concrete over, and get rid of the playground altogether," she said.
"The issues are over here at the cabana; I think that's the main issue," Mallon added. "Like, yes, they need an outlet for kids, and I understand that, but that outlet doesn't seem to work."
McQueen and his family have decided to move following the shooting.
In response to the incident, Richland County deputies have increased patrols in the area.
Sheriff Lott urged anyone with video or Ring doorbell recordings from the community to come forward and assist with the investigation. People can also contact Crimestoppers at 1-888-CRIME-SC.