South Carolina Jury Acquits Store Owner in 2023 Fatal Shooting of Teen
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A South Carolina jury has found convenience store owner Chikei Rick Chow not guilty of murder in the 2023 shooting of 14-year-old Cyrus Carmack-Belton. The case centered on conflicting accounts of whether the teen pointed a gun at Chow during a chase from the store. The acquittal concludes the criminal trial, but a civil lawsuit is now being pursued.
Facts First
- Chikei Rick Chow was acquitted of murder by a South Carolina jury on June 1, 2026.
- The 2023 shooting occurred after a chase of more than 130 yards from Chow's Columbia convenience store.
- The defense argued Cyrus Carmack-Belton pointed a gun at Chow, while prosecutors said the teen never threatened anyone.
- The 2023 incident prompted vigils and protests in Richland County, a community nearly half Black.
- A civil lawsuit is now being pursued by an attorney and state legislator representing the teen's family.
What Happened
On Monday, June 1, 2026, a South Carolina jury found 61-year-old convenience store owner Chikei Rick Chow not guilty of murder in the 2023 shooting of 14-year-old Cyrus Carmack-Belton. The shooting occurred in Columbia, South Carolina, after Chow chased the teen more than 130 yards from his store. Prosecutors alleged Chow acted in anger, wrongly believing Carmack-Belton had stolen water bottles. The defense stated Chow testified the teen pointed a gun at him, while prosecutors acknowledged Carmack-Belton had a pistol but said it fell during the chase and was never used to threaten anyone.
Why this Matters to You
This verdict may shape public perceptions of self-defense laws and the use of force by business owners. For communities, particularly in areas like Richland County, the outcome of such cases can influence trust in the legal system and feelings of safety. The pursuit of a civil lawsuit suggests the legal and community response to this incident is not yet fully resolved.
What's Next
A civil lawsuit against Chow is now being pursued by attorney and state legislator Todd Rutherford. This legal action represents the next phase in seeking accountability outside the criminal justice system. The case may continue to be a point of discussion regarding community relations and legal standards for the use of force.