News Summary
A Columbia man, Marquise Robinson, has been sentenced to 30 years in prison for his role in the Columbiana Mall mass shooting in April 2022, which injured nine people. Robinson, along with two accomplices, was found guilty on multiple counts, including assault and battery of a high and aggravated nature. The shooting, stemming from a pre-existing dispute, had a significant impact on community safety and public sentiment. The judge emphasized the importance of accountability in preventing future violent acts.
Columbia Man Sentenced to 30 Years for Columbiana Mall Mass Shooting
In the heart of Columbia, a significant ruling has emerged as Marquise Robinson, a 23-year-old man, has been handed a 30-year sentence in a South Carolina Department of Corrections prison. This sentence stems from his involvement in a tragic mass shooting that took place at the Columbiana Mall on April 16, 2022. The sentence was delivered by Judge Walton J. McLeod IV after Robinson was convicted back in November 2024.
The Shocking Events Unfold
The Columbiana Mall shooting was no ordinary incident; it sent shockwaves through the community as nine innocent bystanders were caught in the crossfire while simply shopping. The chaotic scene left civilians scrambling for safety amidst the sound of gunfire. Robinson was found guilty on nine counts of Assault and Battery of a High and Aggravated Nature. This verdict was a result of a thorough investigation conducted by the Columbia Police Department, along with prosecution efforts led by Eleventh Circuit Solicitor Rick Hubbard and Deputy Solicitor Suzanne Mayes.
The Accomplices
Robinson was not alone in this incident; he had accomplices in the chaos. Both Amari Smith, 24, and Jewayne Price, 25, played critical roles in the shooting. Smith decided to take a plea deal and received the same 30-year sentence as Robinson on November 1, 2024, while Price was convicted by a jury and subsequently sentenced to 35 years in October 2024.
A Dark Deception
The backdrop to this tragic shooting was a pre-existing dispute related to a 2018 shooting death in Columbia. The tension escalated rapidly once Smith, Robinson, and Price made their way into the mall with concealed firearms, blatantly disregarding mall rules that prohibit such weapons. On that fateful day, video surveillance captured the harrowing moment as over 17 rounds were fired, igniting a brutal gunfight between Price and Smith, with Robinson entangled in the mayhem.
The Cost of Violence
Among those caught in the crossfire were a 15-year-old girl and a 16-year-old boy who were shopping with their father, both victims of a scenario nobody could have anticipated. The chaos left a 73-year-old woman critically injured after being shot by Price. Innocent lives were disrupted, and the community was left to grapple with the aftermath of violence.
A Clear Message
Following the sentencing, the judge highlighted the necessity for a strong legal response to deter such violent acts going forward. Robinson was found in possession of a .40 caliber pistol during the incident, which was later recovered by police at a residential location in Columbia. Public safety and community accountability were recurring themes in discussions surrounding this case.
Community Reactions
Columbia Police Chief W.H. “Skip” Holbrook voiced the collective sentiment that accountability is vital in maintaining public safety. The community has been on edge since the shooting, and this case serves as a reminder of the serious ramifications of gun violence and the importance of safety in public spaces.
Moving Forward
As the city processes the impact of this case, many hope that the legal consequences imposed on Robinson and his accomplices will resonate throughout the community. With ongoing discussions about safety and accountability, Columbia is taking steps toward a more secure future.
As people continue to enjoy shopping and activities in the area, the sentiment remains clear: love and solidarity within the community can help heal the wounds left by violence.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
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Columbia’s State Auditor Resignation Raises Financial Concerns
Columbiana Mall Shooting: Jewayne Price Sentenced to 35 Years
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University of South Carolina to Renovate Williams-Brice Stadium
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Columbia, S.C. Joins Nationwide ‘We Fight Back’ Protests
Additional Resources
- WISTV: Alight Apartment Shooting
- Wikipedia: Gun Violence in the United States
- WLTX: West Columbia Shooting
- Google Search: Columbia Shooting 2024
- The State: Local News
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Crime
- ABC Columbia: Two Dead After Shooting
- Google News: West Columbia Shooting
Author: STAFF HERE IRMO
The IRMO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREIrmo.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Irmo, Lexington and Richland Counties, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Irmo Okra Strut Festival, Harbison Community Events, and local sports tournaments at the Palmetto Health Credit Union Foundation Stadium. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Irmo Chapin Recreation Commission and the Lexington Chamber and Visitors Center, plus leading businesses in retail and healthcare that power the local economy such as Village at Sandhill and Lexington Medical Center. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
