COLUMBIA, S.C. — Richland County Sheriff's deputies have arrested a suspect in the shooting incident that took place outside of the Kroger Marketplace on Roberts Branch Parkway, off Farrow Road, on Sunday afternoon.
Whitney Gist had just started shopping at the Kroger on Killian Road at Roberts Branch Parkway Sunday when shots rang out from the parking lot.
“All I heard was, ‘A person (has) got a gun! A person (has) got a gun!'" We kind of scrambled around because we weren’t really sure what was going on. They weren’t letting anyone else in the store. Then they finally let us out to come to our cars,” Gist said.
According to Richland County Sheriff's Department Public Information Deputy Jay Weaver, a man was having an argument with an acquaintance when he pulled out a gun and began firing.
The suspect hit several cars before being subdued by Kroger employees.
Witnesses reported counting eight shell casings on the ground, as two vehicles were struck.
One employee described seeing bullet holes in a windshield, saying that if the bullet had gone in just a few inches to the left or right, it could have struck and killed one of the vehicle’s passengers.
The employees held the suspect until deputies arrived moments later.
Weaver said the accused shooter faces several charges.
“We do have a suspect in custody, his name is Lateef Carnegie. He is 50 years old, and he is from Blythewood. He is charged with attempted murder, breach of peace in aggravated nature, and presenting a weapon while under the influence,” Weaver said.
Employees said everything happened in the blink of an eye, but credited the quick thinking of store management and incredibly fast response from law enforcement for keeping everyone calm and preventing any injuries.
“The one(s) I ran into, they seemed kind of calm. I think they were trying to make sure all the customers and everything were safe,” Gist said.
Kroger released a statement to News19 saying in part:
“The safety of our customers and associates is our top priority. We appreciate the dedication of our associates in situations such as this and are thankful no one was injured as a result of the altercation. We would also like to thank the Richland County Sheriff’s Department for their quick response.”
Monday, shoppers were back at the grocery retailer and shoppers said the area typically feels safe.
“I would describe it as being safe. I know there are things that happen all over, but I’ve never known anything to happen at this particular store," said Pamela Miller.
“I think it is fairly safe. I heard about the incident yesterday and I’m thinking that’s kind of unusual or rare for that type of incident to happen,” said Larry Dillard.
“I feel safe over here. I’ve never had an issue,” explained Kroger shopper Lisa Hreha.
Still, Gist said she’ll keep an extra eye out when she goes shopping. “Kind of like I have to be a little more aware of my surroundings. I’m hoping I can just go in and come back out and go back home,” Gist said.
Richland County deputies said that while they appreciate the employees' help in this incident, any time a weapon is used in a crime they encourage the public not to engage, but instead find a safe place and call 9-1-1.