In a grim incident that unfolded in Columbia, South Carolina, a 14-year-old boy, Cyrus Carmack-Belton, met a tragic end when he was shot by a local gas station owner Rick Chow, know about his parents
The accused, Rick Chow, suspected Cyrus of shoplifting and, in a turn of events that has left the community in shock, shot the boy. Here is all you need to know about the murder incident.
Who is Cyrus Carmack-Belton South Carolina boy murdered by Rick Chow, bio, age, family, parents
On a fateful Sunday evening around 8 p.m., Cyrus entered Chow’s store. Reports suggest that Chow and his son suspected Cyrus of shoplifting bottled water, leading to a confrontation that would take a deadly turn.
Rick Chow, owner of a Shell gas station in Columbia, SC, MURDERED Cyrus Carmack-Belton, a 14 yr old Black boy, over a bottle of water.
Asian Americans have a history of anti-Blackness, exploiting Black neighborhoods, policing Black bodies, and appropriating Black culture. pic.twitter.com/hcrnl8NY0M
— Bishop Talbert Swan (@TalbertSwan) May 30, 2023
Cyrus, reportedly frightened, began to run away, which prompted Chow’s son to give chase. Upon realizing Cyrus was carrying a gun, Chow took drastic action. Despite no indication of a direct threat or violent retaliation from the fleeing Cyrus, Chow shot the teenager in the back, leading to his immediate death at the scene.
Owner charged with murder in Cyrus Carmack murder case
Rick Chow, 58, has since been charged with Cyrus’ murder. Richland County Sheriff Leon Lott condemned the shooting, stating at a press conference, “You don’t shoot somebody in the back if he’s not a threat to you… There has to be an immediate danger to you. Someone who is running away… he was shot in the back. Even if he had shoplifted four bottles of water, it’s not something you shoot anyone over much less a 14-year-old.”
Who was Cyrus Carmack-Belton?
Cyrus Carmack-Belton, merely 14 years old, was visiting family in town and reportedly entered Chow’s store during his visit. Authorities also clarified that there was no physical altercation between Chow and the teenager, as evidenced by the lack of defensive wounds, scratches, or injuries on Cyrus’ body.
History will always repeat if we don’t know the TRUTH RIP Latasha Harlins & to the 14 young man Cyrus Carmack Belton.
Dying over a anything is crazy but WATER????????? Y’all Asians gonna start getting a good treatment I see it coming. https://t.co/6oa2hD6jcn pic.twitter.com/QfFuAcPdLp
— 1 of 1 (@HussleMase) May 30, 2023
Community mourns as investigation continues in Cyrus Carmack case
As the community mourns the loss of the young boy, Coroner Naida Rutherford has offered condolences to the grieving Carmack-Belton family. The police have assured that the investigation is ongoing, and they are exploring all possible facets of the case. As this tragic story continues to unfold, it serves as a stark reminder of the devastating consequences of gun violence, particularly when children are involved.
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