News Summary
A 19-year-old man was fatally shot in Rock Hill, SC, outside a convenience store. Jy Querious Catoe succumbed to his injuries days after the incident, which involved two suspects now facing serious charges. The turning point has sparked concerns about rising youth violence in the community.
Rock Hill, SC: Tragedy Strikes as 19-Year-Old Jy Querious Catoe is Shot Dead
A 19-year-old named Jy Querious Catoe has died after being shot outside a convenience store in Rock Hill on July 7. The shooting took place near Adam’s Grocery around 10 p.m. while Catoe was seated in the passenger side of a vehicle. He succumbed to his injuries on July 10.
Law enforcement has arrested two suspects linked to the incident: A’Montae White, 19, who surrendered to police on July 10, and a 16-year-old whose identity remains undisclosed. Both suspects face serious charges including murder, attempted murder, and multiple counts of weapon possession during a violent crime.
Catoe was reportedly shot at least twice in the head by the suspects, who were seen on store surveillance video deliberately firing at him and another individual. The chaos began when the two suspects followed a man out of the store before opening fire. The second victim, who was present with Catoe, managed to enter the store to evade the attackers.
Detective Dustin Ochiltree from the Rock Hill Police Department described the footage as “shocking,” labeling the suspects’ actions as “calculated and merciless.” Both suspects fled the scene immediately after the gunfire erupted.
Legal Proceedings for the Suspects
A’Montae White has not entered a plea but indicated intentions to hire a private attorney. His bail was denied by Judge Dolores Williams, and he will remain in custody at York County jail while awaiting trial. The legal minimum for a murder conviction in South Carolina is 30 years, with a maximum penalty of life imprisonment. The charge of attempted murder can also lead to up to 30 years behind bars.
The 16-year-old suspect is currently in custody with the South Carolina Department of Juvenile Justice. It remains uncertain whether prosecutors will pursue charges against him as an adult, given that South Carolina law prohibits individuals under 18 from possessing a handgun.
Community Reactions and Concerns
The tragic incident has raised alarms about rising youth violence in the community. Pastor C.T. Kirk of the Sanctuary of Life Outreach Center has expressed his distress, noting that Catoe’s death marks the second fatal incident among young individuals in the area within a three-week span. He highlighted ongoing community outreach efforts aimed at engaging youth and providing positive outlets to deter such violence.
Background Information
Gun violence among youth has become a mounting concern across various communities, prompting discussions about preventive measures and the importance of fostering safe, engaging spaces for young people. The community’s proactive approach seeks to address the factors contributing to such incidents, ensuring that youth have access to constructive activities.
This tragedy underscores the need for collective action and support systems to help reduce youth violence and promote a safer environment for all members of the Rock Hill community.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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Two Arrested in Fatal Rock Hill Shooting of 19-Year-Old
Rock Hill: 19-Year-Old Jy Querious Catoe Dies After Convenience Store Shooting
Suspects Charged in Fatal Shooting of Rock Hill Teen
Homicide Investigation Launched in Rock Hill After Shooting Death
Man Arrested for the Shooting Death of Teen in Rock Hill
Tragic Shooting Incident in Columbia Claims Young Life
Shooting Leaves Teen Hospitalized in Rock Hill
Purdue Basketball Targets Shine on Adidas Circuit Opening Day
Shooting Leaves Teen in Critical Condition in Rock Hill
Additional Resources
- Herald Online: Rock Hill Tragedy
- Wikipedia: Youth Violence
- WCCB Charlotte: Police Search for Suspects
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Gun Violence
- WBTV: 19-Year-Old Dies After 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.
