In the early evening of May 12, 2023, tragedy struck in Columbia, South Carolina, claiming the life of 18-year-old Antonio Hafan Riley Jr. A Black male, Riley was in the 2500 block of Crofton Way when he was fatally shot. The incident unfolded around 7 p.m. in the Woodfield area, near Richland Northeast High School.
Deputies from the Richland County Sheriff's Department were dispatched to the apartment complex following reports of a shooting.
Upon their arrival, they discovered Riley suffering from multiple gunshot wounds to his upper body. Despite the efforts of first responders, he was pronounced dead at the scene. The Richland County Coroner, Naida Rutherford, later confirmed his identity.
Investigators with the sheriff's department believe the shooting was an isolated incident. However, authorities have not released any information regarding a potential motive or any person or persons of interest. As the investigation into Antonio Hafan Riley Jr.'s death continues, no arrests have been announced. The Richland County Sheriff's Department has urged anyone with information about the shooting to come forward and contact CrimeStoppers.