COLUMBIA, S.C. (WIS) – Dozens gathered at the State House for 14-year-old Cyrus Carmack Belton, as two scheduled vigils became a large gathering.

The crowd turned out in support of the family of the late 14-year-old, who was fatally shot outside a Columbia gas station in 2023 by former owner Rick Chow after being accused of stealing a water bottle from the store.

Less than a week ago, Chow’s acquittal shocked the community. The case also gained national attention.

His mother, Nicole Carmack, addressed the crowd in attendance.

“I am angry, I am outraged. Every day we turn on the news, something else happens to us. When is enough going to be enough?” she said.

After days of protest in northeast Columbia, Cyrus’ family and supporters made their way to the State House. One of the vigils was organized by 20-year-old Jadann Hill.

“My generation, we are the change. We have to put forth the effort to go vote, we have to go to council meetings, we have to put in the effort — stop shopping at places that don’t support us. Let everyone know how you feel, and how you feel is that it can be a change,” Hill said.

Hill personally knows the impact. She lost two people close to her because of gun violence.

Regarding the not guilty verdict, Hill said, “No life is worth 99 cents.”

The Cyrus vigils were also joined by members of the Black Panthers, who marched from northeast Columbia to the State House.

“The unification is the key. I’m going to speak out to all my black men out there — we need to start standing up and standing together,” said Robert Sherman, a member of the Black Panthers. “Kids are supposed to bury their parents — not parents burying their kids. We are moving effectively to bring the people together.”

People of all ages joined together to speak their minds.

A 10-year-old attendee said, “I think Cyrus needs justice for his loss.”

Sheila Harris said, “We want justice for Cyrus. We know the law can’t be overturned, but maybe our voices can be heard.”

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