Suspects Charged in Fatal Shooting of Rock Hill Teen

Rock Hill, South Carolina – Two suspects have been charged in the fatal shooting of a 19-year-old man, Jy Querious Catoe, outside of Adams Grocery on Wilson Street. A’montae Kevion Markise White, 19, and a 16-year-old juvenile were caught on surveillance video committing the crime, which occurred on Monday night. The video evidence has been described by police as showing the suspects engaging in calculated and merciless actions during the shooting.

Details of the Incident

Detective Dustin Ochiltree from the Rock Hill Police confirmed that Catoe was shot at least twice in the head while seated in a car outside the store. Following the shooting, he was transported to a local hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries on Tuesday.

Witness accounts indicate that the incident escalated when another man, who was with Catoe, observed White and the unidentified teenager inside the store. Fearful upon seeing the suspects, the second man attempted to leave, prompting the shooters to open fire in his direction. The shots missed their intended target but struck Catoe, who was sitting in the passenger seat of the vehicle.

After the shooting, the suspects fled the scene and managed to evade immediate apprehension. Authorities reported that White turned himself in to the police on Thursday, following a two-day search.

Charges and Court Proceedings

Both White and the 16-year-old are facing serious charges, including murder, attempted murder, and weapons crimes. During a recent court appearance, White remained silent except for a statement about hiring a private defense attorney. A member of Catoe’s family attended the hearing but did not provide any comments to the court.

Judge Dolores Williams denied bail for White, who will be held at the York County jail while awaiting trial. If convicted of murder in South Carolina, individuals face sentences ranging from 30 years to life imprisonment, while attempted murder charges can result in up to 30 years in prison.

The juvenile suspect was arrested late Wednesday and is currently in the custody of the South Carolina Department of Juvenile Justice. His identity is protected due to his age, and it remains uncertain whether prosecutors will attempt to charge him as an adult—a move that could lead to significantly tougher penalties. It’s important to note that, in juvenile court, any potential incarceration concludes when the individual turns 22.

Legal Context and Community Concerns

In South Carolina, it is illegal for anyone under 18 to possess a handgun. The state’s laws imply strict measures against gun possession among minors, reflecting the ongoing struggles against youth-related gun violence. Local pastor C.T. Kirk has voiced concerns regarding a rising trend of gun violence among teenagers, noting that this particular incident is part of a troubling pattern that has started to affect the Rock Hill community.

With the increasing warmth of community discussions around gun violence, local officials and community leaders continue to seek solutions to prevent further tragedies. The implications of this incident may prompt conversations about safety measures for youth and the urgent need for community intervention programs.

As investigations continue, residents of Rock Hill are left grappling with the impact of this senseless act of violence, emphasizing the importance of addressing the underlying issues that contribute to youth crime and violence in the area.