Sheriff: Deputies to guard gas station owned by Columbia man charged in teen’s murder

COLUMBIA, S.C. (WIS) - Richland County Sheriff Leon Lott said deputies will be allocated to guard a gas station owned by a Columbia man charged in a teen’s murder.

The owner, 58-year-old Rick Chow, was arrested and charged with murder on Monday in the shooting death of 14-year-old Cyrus Carmack-Belton.

There’s been multiple reports of vandalism and looting at the store on Parklane Road since Monday night.

“We had one tragedy the other night when the 14-year-old was shot. Why in the world do we have to continue to have what we had last night with people just going out and stealing and trying to destroy,” Lott said. “That’s not what the family of that 14-year-old wants. That’s not what this community wants. That’s not what this community stands for.”

Lott stated peaceful protesting will be supported, but those participating in the vandalism and looting will be identified and arrested.

Lott asked for anyone who has photos and videos to contact the Richland County Sheriff’s Department.

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