Lancaster, SC Community Shaken After Shooting at Walmart Leaves Shoppers in Panic as Police Investigate Suspected Targeted Incident at University Place Shopping Center

LANCASTER, SC – The Lancaster community is in shock following a violent shooting that erupted at a Walmart store on Tuesday afternoon, sending shoppers into panic and prompting an urgent police response. Law enforcement officials are actively investigating the circumstances surrounding the incident, which has raised concerns about public safety in the area.

The shooting occurred around 2:30 p.m. at the University Place shopping center on Highway 9 Bypass West, a busy commercial area frequented by local residents. Authorities have confirmed that the individuals involved appeared to know each other, suggesting the incident was not a random act of violence.

Eyewitness Accounts Describe Chaos

Shoppers inside the store at the time of the shooting described a terrifying scene as gunfire erupted, causing people to flee for cover.

“I was in the checkout line when I heard the shots,” said Mary Ann Thompson, a Lancaster resident who was inside the Walmart when the shooting took place. “People were screaming, running, and dropping their bags. It was pure chaos.”

Other witnesses reported seeing two individuals in a heated confrontation before the shots were fired. Store employees quickly responded by guiding customers to safety and calling 911.

Law Enforcement Responds Swiftly

The Lancaster Police Department (LPD), along with Lancaster County Sheriff’s deputies, responded to the scene within minutes. Upon arrival, officers secured the area, provided medical aid, and began interviewing witnesses.

“We want to reassure the public that this was not a random attack,” said Lancaster Police Chief Don Roper. “Preliminary evidence suggests that the individuals involved were acquainted, and we are working diligently to determine what led to this tragic event.”

Authorities have not yet released the identities of those involved, and details regarding injuries or fatalities remain unclear as the investigation continues.

Community Reacts to Growing Concerns Over Violence

The shooting has sparked conversations about community safety, with many residents expressing concern over the rising number of violent incidents in public spaces.

“It’s terrifying to think that something like this can happen in broad daylight at a place where families shop,” said Robert Jenkins, a father of three who frequently visits the Walmart. “We need to feel safe in our own town.”

Local officials have assured the public that they are taking necessary steps to enhance security measures in commercial areas to prevent future incidents.

Ongoing Investigation and Call for Witnesses

As law enforcement continues to gather evidence, investigators are urging anyone with information about the shooting to come forward. Surveillance footage from the store and surrounding businesses is being reviewed to piece together the full sequence of events.

Anyone with relevant details is encouraged to contact the Lancaster Police Department at (803) 283-1171 or submit an anonymous tip through Crime Stoppers.

Walmart Issues Statement

Following the incident, Walmart corporate officials released a statement expressing their concern for customers and employees who were present during the shooting.

“The safety and well-being of our customers and associates is our top priority,” the statement read. “We are fully cooperating with law enforcement as they investigate this matter.”

The store briefly closed for investigation purposes but has since reopened with heightened security measures in place.

A Community Seeking Answers

As Lancaster authorities work to uncover the details behind the shooting, the community remains on edge, hoping for justice and accountability. Residents are calling for increased security, improved conflict resolution efforts, and more community outreach to prevent future acts of violence.

For now, the town mourns the disruption of peace in one of its most frequented shopping centers, as residents try to regain a sense of normalcy in the aftermath of yet another tragic and unsettling event.