Sumter, SC – Sumter Police Chief Russell Roark announced the arrest of a suspect in connection with the fatal shooting that occurred Friday afternoon at the Walmart Supercenter on Broad Street. At a Friday evening news conference, Roark confirmed that 19-year-old Chanceler Lowery of Sumter was taken into custody after his parents turned him in to authorities.

Fatal Shooting at Walmart Supercenter

At approximately 3 p.m. on February 14, Sumter police officers responded to multiple reports of an active shooter situation at the Walmart Supercenter on Broad Street. Upon arrival, officers located a 24-year-old male victim lying outside the store with an apparent gunshot wound. Despite immediate life-saving efforts by officers and bystanders, the victim was later pronounced dead.

Authorities have not yet disclosed where inside the store the shooting initially took place before the victim ended up outside. The Sumter County Coroner’s Office is expected to release additional details about the victim, including his identity, once proper notifications have been made to the family.

The incident caused widespread panic among Walmart shoppers and employees. Witnesses described a chaotic scene as customers ducked behind shelves, ran for the exits, and sought cover inside dressing rooms and restrooms. Store employees, many of whom were preparing for the busy Valentine’s Day shopping crowd, acted swiftly to help direct customers to safety.

“People were screaming, running, and crying. It was the scariest thing I’ve ever experienced,” said Jessica Hampton, a Walmart employee who was near the front registers when the gunshots rang out. “I just grabbed a mother and her child and pulled them into the break room until police arrived.”

Suspect Taken into Custody

The investigation quickly led authorities to Chanceler Lowery as the primary suspect. Roark confirmed that Lowery was turned in to the Sumter Police Department by his parents later that same evening.

“This is yet another example of young people possessing firearms and engaging in violent acts,” Roark stated. “Unfortunately, this is not just happening in Sumter—it is a nationwide issue.”

Authorities believe that Lowery and the victim were known to each other and had ongoing disputes prior to the shooting. While the exact nature of their relationship and conflict remains under investigation, early reports suggest a personal altercation may have escalated into deadly violence. Investigators are looking into social media activity and text message exchanges between the two in the days leading up to the shooting to determine whether threats or hostile messages were exchanged.

After Lowery’s arrest, police conducted a thorough search of his home, confiscating electronic devices, personal belongings, and a firearm that may have been used in the crime.

Investigation and Security Measures

Police described the case as “fluid,” with multiple interviews still ongoing. Authorities are working to gather statements from witnesses and are actively reviewing surveillance footage from the store. They have also indicated that another individual may be brought in for questioning.

Law enforcement officials have also increased security presence at other major retail locations throughout Sumter, including shopping malls and grocery stores, to ensure public safety. Additional police patrols will continue throughout the weekend.

Walmart’s Response

Walmart has issued an official statement regarding the incident, expressing condolences to the victim’s family and pledging full cooperation with law enforcement. The company also reassured customers and employees that safety remains a top priority and that they are reviewing security protocols to prevent future tragedies.

“We are deeply saddened by this senseless act of violence that occurred in one of our stores,” the statement read. “Our hearts go out to the victim’s loved ones during this difficult time. We are working closely with law enforcement to aid in their investigation and will continue to provide resources to our associates who were affected.”

Walmart has temporarily closed the Sumter location to allow law enforcement to conduct a thorough investigation. Crisis counselors have been made available to employees who were present during the shooting.

Community Response and Law Enforcement Efforts

Sumter residents expressed shock and concern over the shooting, with many emphasizing the need for better conflict resolution among young people.

“This is heartbreaking. You hear about violence happening all over, but when it happens right in your hometown, in a place you go shopping with your family, it really shakes you,” said local resident Angela Carter.

Community leaders have called for discussions on how to curb youth violence, emphasizing the importance of mentorship, conflict resolution programs, and responsible gun ownership.

Religious organizations and civic groups have scheduled vigils and support gatherings in response to the tragedy, providing a space for community members to grieve and discuss solutions to prevent further violence.

Legal Consequences and Next Steps

Lowery is expected to face formal charges, which may include murder and unlawful possession of a firearm. He remains in custody at the Sumter County Detention Center, awaiting his first court appearance. Prosecutors will work closely with investigators to determine the appropriate charges based on forensic evidence, witness testimonies, and surveillance footage.

Sumter County’s district attorney, James Whitmore, has emphasized the gravity of the charges. “This was a deliberate act of violence that has shattered lives and disrupted an entire community. We will pursue justice to the fullest extent of the law.”

Law enforcement officials continue to encourage anyone with additional information to come forward, urging the public to assist in the pursuit of justice.

As the Sumter community mourns the loss of another young life, authorities stress the importance of working together to prevent further incidents of gun violence.

Addressing the Growing Trend of Gun Violence

Experts say that gun violence in public spaces is a growing concern nationwide, and policymakers are debating solutions to prevent future tragedies. Sumter’s local government is considering implementing new safety measures, such as increasing security personnel at high-traffic locations, installing gun detection technology, and expanding community outreach programs that target at-risk youth.

Gun control activists have renewed calls for stricter background checks and firearm restrictions, arguing that easy access to guns contributes to incidents like these. Others, however, emphasize the importance of mental health support, youth intervention programs, and responsible gun ownership rather than stricter gun laws alone.

Looking Ahead

While the immediate investigation focuses on justice for the victim and ensuring the safety of Sumter residents, the larger conversation revolves around preventing such incidents in the future. As authorities piece together the full story behind the Walmart shooting, the community grapples with the reality of violence in public spaces and the urgent need for solutions.

Residents are encouraged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to law enforcement. The Sumter Police Department is working to establish stronger community policing initiatives and improve relations between officers and the public to foster an environment of trust and safety.

As the investigation continues, authorities promise to keep the public informed with further updates and developments in the case. Meanwhile, the family of the victim, along with the entire Sumter community, seeks justice and healing in the wake of yet another tragic loss of life.