“What We Know About the West Columbia Drive-By Shooting: Key Questions Surrounding the Chaotic Incident”

COLUMBIA, S.C. (WIS) – A drive-by shooting in West Columbia has left residents on edge and authorities scrambling for answers. The Lexington County Sheriff’s Department is investigating a violent episode that erupted Wednesday night on Pebble Creek Drive, involving gunfire, a fleeing suspect vehicle, and a recovered firearm. But as details emerge, more questions linger than clear answers. Here’s what we know—and what remains unexplained.

1. What Happened During the Shooting?

According to documents obtained by WIS, deputies responded to reports of shots fired around 9 p.m. and encountered a distraught victim who claimed they were targeted while inside a vehicle. The victim described a frantic escape, saying they ran from the scene after gunfire broke out and were later picked up by a friend. Strangely, the victim admitted to being brought to an address where three strangers were present—and insisted they had no idea who the shooters were.

Key Detail: The victim alleged the suspect vehicle was parked next to the house when they arrived, with the shooting starting immediately. Why would a vehicle linger in plain sight before opening fire?

2. What Evidence Was Found at the Scene?

Deputies noted a vehicle in the driveway with a shattered rear window, likely struck by gunfire. Bullet holes were later discovered in a second car on the property and in the side of a nearby home, raising fears about stray bullets endangering bystanders. Shell casings littered the road, but the most critical find came later: a Glock .40 caliber handgun, an open can of Four Loko alcohol, and ammunition matching the casings.

Bizarre Twist: The gun’s magazine contained multicolored shells—identical to those found at the scene. A spent cartridge was also lodged in the driver’s side door. Were these details intentional, or merely coincidental?

3. Why Did the Suspect Vehicle Flee?

After the shooting, a deputy spotted a vehicle matching the suspect’s description near another residence. The driver allegedly ignored a stop sign and sped off upon noticing law enforcement, triggering a brief chase. The pursuit ended when the driver pulled over and surrendered, but the reason for their flight remains unclear.

Unanswered Question: Were the occupants trying to escape the shooting, or did they have prior knowledge of the crime? Authorities have not linked them directly to the gunfire—yet.

4. Who Were the Victim and the Occupants of the Suspect Vehicle?

The victim’s account is riddled with inconsistencies. They claimed to have no connection to the shooters but ended up at a home with three unfamiliar people. Meanwhile, the driver and passenger in the suspect vehicle—whose names are redacted in reports—have not been charged, despite the weapon and evidence in their possession.

Community Concern: Residents are demanding transparency. “How can we feel safe if we don’t know who’s involved?” one local told WIS.

5. Was There More to the Scene Than Meets the Eye?

Deputies reported a “strong odor of marijuana” coming from the home where the victim was found, though no drugs were seized. Could the shooting be tied to illegal activity, or is this a red herring?

What’s Next: Authorities are reviewing surveillance footage and urging witnesses to come forward. The Glock and ammunition will undergo forensic testing to confirm their role in the shooting.

Why This Story Matters

Drive-by shootings in residential areas are rare but alarming, especially when details are murky. The presence of a firearm, alcohol, and cryptic behavior from those involved has fueled speculation online, with theories ranging from gang activity to mistaken identity.