Tragic Shooting in Columbia Leaves One Dead, Suspect Arrested

Tragic Shooting in Columbia Leaves One Dead, Suspect Arrested

Columbia is still reeling from a devastating incident that occurred on the evening of November 14, when a shooting outside the popular Bojangles restaurant on Harbison Boulevard resulted in the tragic death of a 40-year-old woman. Just a week later, police have arrested a man in connection with this heart-wrenching event.

Who is the Suspect?

The suspect, Ja’Quivian A. Kennerly, a 23-year-old man, is now facing multiple serious charges. These include murder, two counts of attempted murder, and additional charges for possession of a weapon during a violent crime and discharging a firearm into an occupied vehicle. Kennerly was identified as the shooter the day after the tragic event and turned himself into police on the morning of November 20.

The Incident’s Details

On that fateful evening, Ms. Antoinette Michelle Hammonds-Colon, who was standing in the parking lot of the busy fast food restaurant, was shot in the upper body. She was rushed to a nearby hospital but unfortunately succumbed to her injuries, as confirmed by Lexington County Coroner Margaret Fisher.

Police reports indicate that Kennerly reportedly fired multiple shots at a vehicle that had two passengers inside. His intention, it seems, was to physically harm those individuals. Tragically, Ms. Hammonds-Colon became the unintended victim during this dangerous act of violence.

A Community Shaken

As the investigation unfolded, authorities noted that the shooting likely stemmed from some prior dispute between Kennerly and the occupants of the vehicle. However, the specifics of that disagreement have not yet been made available. Thankfully, no one else in the vicinity was injured, though the threat of violence served to shake this bustling community.

Traffic Disruptions

The event has not only left a mark on the individuals involved but also impacted the local community as Harbison Boulevard is a major thoroughfare, with over 30,000 cars passing by daily. In response to the violence, police temporarily closed off the Bojangles parking lot and the surrounding area, creating significant traffic disruptions.

Public Viewing and Funeral Arrangements

As a sign of respect for the life lost, a public viewing for Ms. Hammonds-Colon is scheduled for November 22 from 3-6 p.m. at Columbia’s Bostick-Tompkins Funeral Home. Her funeral service will take place the following day at 4 p.m. at The Life Church on Wilson Boulevard in Columbia. The community is coming together to mourn the loss of a life taken too soon and support family and friends during this difficult time.

Looking Ahead

This incident serves as a reminder of the serious impact of gun violence and the importance of addressing disputes in peaceful ways. The police are continuing their investigation with help from the U.S. Marshals Service’s Carolinas Regional Task Force, striving to provide more insights into what led up to such a tragically violent act.

As this story develops, local authorities strive to keep residents informed. It’s essential to have open communication about safety in our beloved community. Please remain attentive for further updates as more details arise.