Budiman’s Smokeshop & Art Gallery shooting: Two Killed, One Seriously Injured in Shooting Incident; Suspect Apprehended After Dramatic Chase
On Wednesday night, tragedy unfolded at Budiman’s Smokeshop & Art Gallery on Cherry Road in Rock Hill, South Carolina, when a shooting left two people dead and a third gravely injured. The shocking act of violence claimed the lives of 42-year-old Emad Thabet, a beloved local businessman, and an unidentified female victim. The incident has sent shockwaves through the community, with law enforcement responding swiftly to apprehend the suspect, 28-year-old Zachary East Elias of Columbia, after a dramatic pursuit and altercation.
Incident Details: Shots Fired at Budiman’s Smokeshop
The Rock Hill Police Department responded to reports of gunfire at approximately 9:40 p.m. at Budiman’s Smokeshop & Art Gallery, a small but vibrant business known for its eclectic mix of smoking accessories, art pieces, and local memorabilia. When officers arrived on the scene, they found three victims suffering from gunshot wounds inside the shop. Two of the victims—a male and a female—were pronounced dead at the scene. A third individual, a male in his 30s whose name has not been released, was transported to Piedmont Medical Center with life-threatening injuries.
Witnesses reported hearing a heated argument inside the shop moments before shots were fired. The sound of gunfire prompted nearby business owners and residents to call 911. Initial witness accounts described a man, later identified as Elias, fleeing the scene in a silver Dodge truck.
Suspect’s Capture: Chase and Confrontation on Cherry Road
While en route to the scene, officers received updates about the fleeing suspect. Minutes later, they spotted a silver Dodge truck heading north on Cherry Road. Officers attempted to initiate a traffic stop, but Elias continued driving, leading police on a brief chase.
The pursuit ended dramatically near the Catawba River bridge when Elias lost control of his vehicle and crashed. According to the police report, Elias exited the vehicle and initially appeared unarmed. Officers commanded him to surrender, but Elias reportedly charged toward them in an aggressive manner. One officer discharged their firearm but missed. Officers then used a stun gun to subdue Elias after a brief physical altercation.
Elias was taken into custody and transported to a local hospital for evaluation before being booked into the York County Detention Center. Authorities have confirmed that Elias faces multiple charges, including two counts of murder and one count of attempted murder. Additional charges related to the confrontation with officers are pending.
Victims Identified: Remembering Emad Thabet
One of the deceased victims has been identified as 42-year-old Emad Thabet, the co-owner of Budiman’s Smokeshop & Art Gallery. Originally from Egypt, Thabet was well-known in Rock Hill for his friendly demeanor, artistic talent, and commitment to the local community. Friends and family described him as a hardworking entrepreneur who turned his passion for art into a thriving business.
“Emad was a light in this community,” said Sarah Cole, a longtime customer. “He was more than just a business owner. He was someone who cared deeply about the people who walked through his doors. His art gallery was a reflection of his soul—vibrant, unique, and full of life.”
Thabet’s family, many of whom still reside in Egypt, have been notified of his tragic passing. Plans for his funeral and memorial service are currently underway.
The second victim, a woman believed to be in her late 20s, has not yet been publicly identified. Police are working to notify her next of kin. The third victim remains hospitalized, and his condition has not been updated.
Community Reaction: Shock and Mourning
The Rock Hill community is grappling with the aftermath of the tragedy. Budiman’s Smokeshop, a cherished local establishment, has been closed indefinitely as the investigation continues. Floral tributes, candles, and handwritten notes now line the storefront as grieving residents pay their respects.
Mayor John Gettys issued a statement expressing his condolences to the victims’ families and praising the quick response of the Rock Hill Police Department. “This senseless act of violence has left our community heartbroken,” Gettys said. “We stand with the families of the victims and will do everything in our power to support them during this difficult time.”
Suspect’s Background and Motive
Zachary East Elias, the suspect, is a 28-year-old resident of Columbia, South Carolina. Authorities have disclosed that Elias has a history of criminal activity, including prior arrests for assault and drug-related offenses. Investigators are working to determine his motive for the shooting. Early reports suggest that Elias may have been involved in a personal dispute with one of the victims, but police have not confirmed this theory.
Elias’s social media activity and phone records are being analyzed for potential clues. Rock Hill Police Chief Chris Watts has assured the public that investigators are “leaving no stone unturned” in their efforts to uncover the truth behind the tragedy.
Police Response and Use of Force
The confrontation between Elias and law enforcement has sparked some discussion regarding the use of force. While one officer discharged their firearm, no injuries resulted from the gunshot. The decision to deploy a stun gun was made after Elias allegedly resisted arrest.
Chief Watts defended the officers’ actions, stating, “Our officers showed remarkable restraint in a volatile situation. Their priority was to apprehend the suspect without further harm to the public or themselves.”
The South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) has been called in to review the incident, as is standard protocol when an officer discharges a weapon.
Ongoing Investigation
As the investigation continues, Rock Hill Police are urging anyone with information about the incident to come forward. Detectives are particularly interested in hearing from anyone who may have been in or near Budiman’s Smokeshop at the time of the shooting. Surveillance footage from nearby businesses is also being reviewed.
A Community United in Grief
Wednesday night’s tragedy has left an indelible mark on Rock Hill. The loss of Emad Thabet and the unidentified female victim has prompted an outpouring of grief and support from residents, business owners, and community leaders. Vigils are being planned to honor the victims and provide a space for healing.
For those who knew and loved Thabet, his legacy will live on through the art and community spirit he nurtured at Budiman’s Smokeshop & Art Gallery. As Rock Hill mourns, its residents are determined to come together to ensure that the lives lost are remembered and that justice is served.
If you have information about the shooting, please contact the Rock Hill Police Department at (803) 329-7200 or Crime Stoppers at (877) 409-4321.
