News Summary
In Rock Hill, SC, a woman was shot by police after firing a BB gun from her vehicle and leading officers on a pursuit. Following the shooting, she was charged with multiple offenses. The local community is expressing concern over safety and the chaotic nature of the incident, prompting an investigation by SLED. The investigation will examine police engagement in high-stress situations and queries regarding weapons resembling firearms.
Rock Hill, SC – A woman was shot by a Rock Hill police officer on July 5, 2025, after allegedly brandishing a weapon during a chaotic incident that began with her firing shots from her vehicle. Melissa Michelle Hinson, 49, was wounded when she pointed what was thought to be a firearm at law enforcement during a police pursuit.
The confrontation occurred around 6 p.m. near the intersection of Sturgis Road and Cheryl Lynn Drive, situated on the eastern border of Rock Hill and adjacent to York County. As reported by the South Carolina State Law Enforcement Division (SLED), the weapon Hinson pointed was later determined to be a BB gun made to resemble a real handgun.
Before the shooting, Hinson allegedly fired multiple rounds from her Jeep toward nearby residences and individuals in the Nassaw Circle and Young Warrior Town Drive areas. Witnesses recounted seeing Hinson waving the weapon and directing it at several people, creating panic among community members.
When deputies attempted to stop Hinson’s vehicle, she did not comply, leading them on a brief pursuit. Officers employed stop sticks that successfully deflated the tires of her Jeep, causing it to come to a halt along Cheryl Lynn Drive. While attempts to negotiate Hinson’s surrender were underway, a Rock Hill police officer fired one shot, striking Hinson in the shoulder. No officers sustained injuries during the event.
Following the shooting, Hinson was transported to a local hospital for treatment. She was later released and subsequently arrested on charges including breach of peace of a high and aggravated nature and failure to stop for blue lights. Jail records indicate that her bail has been set at $30,000, and she is currently being held at the York County Jail.
In the aftermath of the incident, both the York County sheriff’s office and the Rock Hill police requested SLED to conduct an investigation due to the involvement of local law enforcement. The identity of the officer who discharged their weapon has not been released, and there has been no indication of a clear motive from the police regarding Hinson’s actions.
The event has left the local community in a state of distress and concern for safety. Residents reported that Hinson’s conduct resulted in a dangerous situation, with bullets allegedly causing damage to nearby properties. Many neighbors expressed alarm over having witnessed the incident unfold, highlighting the chaotic nature of the scene.
This incident raises ongoing questions about police engagement in high-stress situations, the nature of weapons that resemble firearms, and the implications for community safety. As investigations proceed, local officials are expected to provide updates regarding both the investigation of the shooting and the subsequent actions taken by law enforcement moving forward.
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Additional Resources
- WSOC TV
- Wikipedia: Police Shooting
- WCCB Charlotte
- Google Search: Rock Hill police shooting
- WBTV
- Google Scholar: Rock Hill police shooting
- Herald Online
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Police Engagement
- MSN News
- Google News: Rock Hill police shooting
Author: STAFF HERE ROCK HILL
The ROCK HILL STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERERockHill.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Rock Hill, York County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Come-See-Me Festival, Rock Hill Arts Festival, and motorsport events at the Rock Hill Velodrome. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Rock Hill Chamber of Commerce and the Culture & Heritage Museums, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and technology that power the local economy such as 3D Systems and Comporium. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
