An altercation between two groups inside a Walmart rapidly escalated into gunfire, resulting in two injuries and local schools being placed on lockdown.
The incident took place around 2:34 p.m. on Tuesday, April 1, in the automotive section of the Walmart on Highway 9 Bypass West in Lancaster, South Carolina. Authorities indicated that the altercation involved rival groups with possible gang affiliations.
During a press conference on Thursday, Lancaster Police Chief Don Roper provided new insights into the investigation.
“I want to express my gratitude to all the agencies that have stepped up to assist us and provide resources during this very complex investigation. Their prompt response and teamwork have been essential in safeguarding our community,” Roper stated.
By Thursday morning, three suspects had been arrested. Lareakus Antonio Cunningham Jr., 18, and Na’Rickio LaQuan Mickle, 19, were detained soon after the incident, facing charges of attempted murder, breach of peace, and possession of a weapon during a violent crime.
A third suspect, Zydarius Stover, was charged with failure to report a crime, according to police statements.
Authorities have also confirmed that a fourth suspect, Jayvion Wells, is under police supervision at a hospital for injuries from the shooting and will be arrested upon release.
As of April 4, 2025, another suspect, Antonio Hayden, turned himself in. Meanwhile, a juvenile suspect remains unidentified and at large. The 6th Circuit Solicitor plans to charge the juvenile as an adult due to the crime’s severity.
Investigators have identified the primary individuals involved in the shooting and are working to apprehend the remaining suspect.
The situation led to precautionary lockdowns at several Lancaster County schools, including North Elementary School, Lancaster High School, Lancaster County School District Career Center, and the Lancaster Bus Office. Parents of students at Andrew Jackson High, Buford High, and Indian Land High were informed about the situation by 3 p.m. on Tuesday.
During the Thursday press conference, Lancaster County Sheriff Barry Faile highlighted the seriousness of the incident, asserting that law enforcement would ensure that the responsible parties face appropriate consequences.
The Walmart store was closed for more than 24 hours after the shooting to allow investigators to examine the scene. It has since reopened, though shoppers have expressed safety concerns.
Authorities confirmed that no Walmart employees or customers were injured during the gunfire, which appeared to solely involve the individuals in the altercation.
Multiple law enforcement agencies are involved in the investigation, including the Lancaster Police Department, Lancaster County Sheriff’s Office, the Multijurisdictional Violent Crimes Task Force, the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED), the FBI, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF).
Walmart officials issued a statement, saying, “Violence like this is unacceptable. We appreciate police and first responders for acting quickly. We’re cooperating with law enforcement during their investigation.”
Investigators emphasize that this was not a random act of violence, as all involved individuals appeared to know each other. The exact motive remains under investigation, with police confirming a potential gang link.
The Lancaster Police Department has set up multiple channels for the public to provide information regarding the case.
Cunningham and Mickle are currently held at the Lancaster County Detention Center without bond, with court dates yet to be scheduled.
This incident is among the most notable public safety concerns in Lancaster County in recent months, sparking discussions about security in high-traffic retail locations.
The investigation continues as authorities collect evidence and interview witnesses present during the incident.
