Authorities have identified the man killed in a deadly weekend shooting on Bellingham Road as 23-year-old Chance M. Brooks of Columbia.
According to the Columbia Police Department, officers were dispatched to the 3400 block of Bellingham Road around 11:30 p.m. on Saturday after receiving reports of gunfire. When they arrived, they found Brooks lying outside with multiple gunshot wounds.
Officers performed CPR and other life-saving measures until emergency medical personnel arrived, but despite their efforts, Brooks was pronounced dead at a nearby hospital.
Richland County Coroner Naida Rutherford confirmed Brooks’ identity and expressed condolences to his family, saying her office will continue working with law enforcement to determine the circumstances surrounding his death.
“This is a heartbreaking loss for the Columbia community,” Rutherford said. “We will do everything possible to ensure justice is served.”
Detectives are actively investigating the case but have not released details about a possible suspect or motive. Anyone with information is urged to contact Crimestoppers at 1-888-CRIME-SC. Tips can be submitted anonymously, and a reward may be available for information leading to an arrest.
Friends and relatives described Brooks as a warm, kind-hearted young man whose laughter and generosity touched everyone he met. His sudden death has left family, friends, and the wider community in shock and mourning.
As the investigation continues, the Columbia community is calling for peace and unity in the face of rising gun violence that has claimed yet another promising life.