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Man Arrested for the Shooting Death of Teen in Rock Hill

Community members gather for a vigil in memory of a shooting victim in Rock Hill.

News Summary

A 21-year-old man, Zykemian Williams, has been arrested and charged with murder following the shooting death of 17-year-old ZyDerec Massey on Finley Road. The tragic incident, which occurred late at night, has raised concerns about gun violence in the Rock Hill community. Law enforcement is still investigating the motive behind the shooting as they continue to gather evidence. Community leaders are calling for discussions on prevention strategies to address youth violence and safety.

Rock Hill, S.C. – A 21-year-old man has been arrested in connection with the shooting death of 17-year-old ZyDerec Massey, which occurred on June 27, 2025. The suspect, Zykemian Williams, faces serious charges, including murder and possession of a firearm during a violent crime.

The shooting incident was reported around 10 p.m. on Finley Road in Rock Hill. Upon arrival, officers discovered ZyDerec Massey suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. Despite attempts to treat him, Massey was pronounced dead shortly after being transported to the hospital.

Following an extensive investigation, law enforcement identified Zykemian Williams as the primary suspect. He was arrested on a Thursday without incident, and is currently being held in jail as he awaits a bond hearing in Rock Hill Municipal Court.

As of now, the motive behind the shooting remains unclear. Investigators have not disclosed any further details related to the circumstances surrounding the incident, but they have confirmed that the investigation remains ongoing.

The tragic loss of ZyDerec Massey has raised concerns within the Rock Hill community about gun violence and public safety. The community is awaiting further information from law enforcement as they continue to uncover the facts of the case.

Details of the Incident

On the night of the shooting, police received reports of gunfire on Finley Road. Officers arrived promptly and found ZyDerec Massey with life-threatening injuries. Paramedics were called to the scene, and efforts were made to stabilize him during transport to the nearest medical facility.

Despite these efforts, ZyDerec Massey succumbed to his injuries, marking a tragic event for the local community. The immediate response by the Rock Hill police department was commended, as they began their investigation promptly after securing the scene.

Investigative Efforts

In the days following the shooting, detectives worked diligently to gather evidence and witness statements. They utilized various investigative techniques, including reviewing surveillance footage from the area. This led to the identification of Zykemian Williams as a suspect.

Williams was located and apprehended without resistance, which indicates a successful collaboration between law enforcement agencies. After his arrest, he faced formal charges that will now proceed through the judicial system.

Community Impact

The shooting of a young man in Rock Hill has sparked conversations about youth violence and the need for measures to address community safety. Residents expressed their grief and concern over the incident, contemplating the effects of gun violence on families and neighborhoods.

Community leaders and local organizations are expected to engage in discussions about prevention strategies to combat violence among youth. The tragic event serves as a reminder of the ongoing issues surrounding firearms and the need for supportive programs targeting at-risk youth.

Next Steps

As Zykemian Williams awaits his bond hearing, the Rock Hill community continues to seek answers about the circumstances of ZyDerec Massey’s death. Law enforcement has indicated that more information may be released as the investigation progresses, and the community remains hopeful for resolution and justice.

This incident underscores the ever-present issue of violence within communities, prompting a call for dialogue and action to prevent further tragedies in the future.

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Additional Resources

STAFF HERE ROCK HILL
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.

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