Rock Hill, SC, September 16, 2025
News Summary
Zachary East Elias, a 27-year-old man from Columbia, is being held without bail after admitting to the double murder of two individuals at Budiman’s Smoke Shop in Rock Hill. The shooting occurred on December 4, 2023, resulting in the deaths of Celcei Johnson and Emad Thabet Saadalla. Elias’s defense claims he was under the influence of drugs, urging that this impacted his mental state during the incident. The court will continue to deliberate on his case as the community remains in shock.
Columbia Man Zachary East Elias Remains Jailed After Admitting to Double Murder in Rock Hill Smoke Shop Shooting
Rock Hill, SC – Zachary East Elias, a 27-year-old man from Columbia, has been denied bail following an admission to killing two individuals at Budiman’s Smoke Shop in Rock Hill on December 4, 2023. Circuit Judge Bill McKinnon ruled that Elias poses a continuous threat to public safety, keeping him in custody at the York County jail.
The shooting resulted in the deaths of Celcei Johnson, a 27-year-old smoke shop employee, and Emad Thabet Saadalla, 49, a customer at the shop. In the course of the incident, Saadalla’s wife was also wounded, adding to the tragedy of the situation.
Evidence presented in court indicates that Elias entered the store shirtless and wielding an assault rifle, aggressively demanding to know the whereabouts of “the mushroom man” while firing at the patrons. The chaotic scene was captured on video, showing Elias openly threatening others and identifying himself as “Jesus Christ” during the shooting.
Following the shooting, Elias attempted to evade authorities by fleeing the scene. However, he crashed his vehicle into a bridge shortly after and was promptly arrested. The incident led to multiple charges against him, including two counts of murder, two counts of attempted murder, and various weapons-related charges.
Defense Claims Drug-Induced Psychosis
Elias’s legal representation argues that their client was under the influence of an illegal drug when committing the acts. They contend that he had consumed a chocolate bar containing psilocybin, leading to a state of “drug-induced psychosis.” On the day of the incident, he was reported to have spent $180 on THC gummies and the magic mushroom chocolate.
Despite the defense’s claims, Judge McKinnon questioned whether Elias’s drug use could genuinely mitigate his culpability, likening the situation to cases of alcohol-related homicides. The prosecutor, Kevin Brackett, emphasized that Elias’s purchase of the drugs indicated his intention to alter his mental state, suggesting he was fully aware of his actions at the time of the shooting.
Details of the Incident
As stated in the police reports, prior to the attack, Elias exhibited bizarre behaviors consistent with drug use. His criminal history is currently non-existent; this incident marks his first serious run-in with the legal system. The court proceedings concluded with no trial date set, leaving Elias in custody as the case unfolds.
Context on South Carolina Drug Laws
Psilocybin, the active compound found in magic mushrooms, is listed among illegal substances in South Carolina. Its association with hallucinations and altered perception has raised concerns in contexts of legality and mental health.
Conclusion
The case of Zachary East Elias has drawn significant attention due to its tragic nature and the implications it bears on mental health and drug use within the judicial system. As legal proceedings continue, the community awaits a trial date that will shed further light on the circumstances surrounding this devastating event.
FAQ
What charges is Zachary East Elias facing?
He faces two counts of murder, two counts of attempted murder, and multiple weapons charges.
Who were the victims of the shooting?
The victims included Celcei Johnson, an employee of the smoke shop, and Emad Thabet Saadalla, a customer. Saadalla’s wife was also injured during the incident.
Was drug use a factor in the incident?
Yes, Elias’s defense claims he was under the influence of an illegal drug containing psilocybin, which they argue led to a state of drug-induced psychosis at the time of the shooting.
When will Elias’s trial take place?
A trial date has yet to be set for Zachary East Elias.
Key Features of the Case
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Name of Suspect | Zachary East Elias |
| Incident Date | December 4, 2023 |
| Location | Budiman’s Smoke Shop, Rock Hill, SC |
| Charges | Two counts of murder, two counts of attempted murder, multiple weapons charges |
| Victims | Celcei Johnson, Emad Thabet Saadalla |
| Legal Status | In custody, no bail granted |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Kaiser Urgent Care in Rock Hill SC: Hours, Location & What to Expect
AFC Urgent Care In Rock Hill SC: Hours, Services & Walk-In Wait Times
Urgent Care Near Me In Rock Hill SC: Open Now, Hours & Wait Times
Man Sought in Vehicle Break-In at John Rudy Park
Community Remembers Alexia Massey Amid Ongoing Gun Violence
Tragic Stabbing of Ukrainian Refugee Highlights Mental Health Crisis in Charlotte
Charlotte Struggles with Public Safety Following Light Rail Murder
Rock Hill Man Convicted of Murder in Speedway Shooting
Two Teenagers Arrested in Fort Mill Homicide Case
Teenagers Arrested in Fatal Shooting at Fort Mill Park
Additional Resources
- Herald Online: Double Murder in Rock Hill Smoke Shop Shooting
- Wikipedia: Mass shooting
- WBTV: Community Rallies After Deadly Rock Hill Shooting
- Google Search: Zachary East Elias
- WCCB Charlotte: Man Charged After Shooting in Rock Hill
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Drug Abuse
- QC News: Rock Hill Man Charged with Attempted Murder
- Google News: Rock Hill 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.
