March against gun violence in Columbia set after Columbiana Centre mass shooting
The public is invited to march against gun violence next month following the recent mass shooting at a Columbia mall that left more than a dozen people injured.
The Broad River Community Prayer March and Resource Fair is set to start at 10 a.m. on May 14 at The Comet at 3613 Lucius Road and end at Right Direction Church at 3506 Broad River Road. The march announcement comes less than a week after a shootout at Columbiana Centre on Saturday.
The Broad River Business Alliance is organizing the event in partnership with Right Direction Church and through the personal contributions of Columbia Mayor Daniel Rickenmann, City Councilwoman Tina Herbert, Richland County Councilwoman Allison Terracio and County Councilman Derrek Pugh and Paul Livingston and City of Columbia Councilman Joe Taylor, according to a press release.
“We are forging a new path that seeks to reconnect our residents with each other, with law enforcement, supportive services and public agencies,” the press release states.
At the end of the march food will be provided, along with information on topics such as crime prevention, youth intervention, victims services and voting initiatives.
“The time has come for us to fully embrace our community and to remind the members across all our neighborhoods that we are in fact a community that cares, that loves and is concerned about our residents, businesses and particularly our children,” the press release states.
Nine people were injured by gunfire and six others were hurt as people rushed to exits following the shooting at Columbiana Centre. Three men have been arrested, including Marquise Love Robinson, 20 of Columbia, Jewayne M. Price, 22, and Amari Sincere-Jamal Smith, 21 of Columbia. All three have been charged with attempted murder and nine counts of aggravated assault and battery.
Organizers are currently seeking volunteers to help with the event. If you are unable to attend, organizers ask for donations of money or supplies, such as water, paper fans, hot dogs, buns, chips, and other items.
If you are interested in helping, call Javar Juarez at 803-331-8397 or email info@broaddriveba.org.
Money can be donated via PayPal at paypal.me/BRBASC.
This story was originally published April 22, 2022 at 9:58 AM.
