Press Conference Recap: Walmart Shooting Incident in Lancaster, SC

Officials Provide Update on Walmart Shooting Investigation

Lancaster, SC – April 3, 2025 – Local law enforcement officials, including Lancaster Police Chief Don Roper, Sheriff Barry Faile, and Solicitor Randy Newman, held a press conference this morning at 10:00 AM to provide the latest details on the Walmart shooting incident that took place on Tuesday, April 1, 2025, at 2:34 PM at the Walmart located at 805 Hwy 9 Bypass.

Authorities confirmed that multiple arrests have been made in connection to the incident, which involved gunfire in a busy shopping area. The violent altercation resulted in chaos among shoppers and employees, prompting a rapid law enforcement response.

Suspects in Custody

As of today, four individuals are in custody, while authorities continue to search for another suspect:

Arrested Individuals

1. Lareakus Cunningham, 18
   • Charges:
     • Attempted Murder
     • Possession of a Weapon During the Commission of a Violent Crime
     • Breach of Peace of High & Aggravated Nature
   • Bond Status: Denied
2. Ny’Rickio Mickle, 19
   • Charges:
     • Attempted Murder
     • Possession of a Weapon During the Commission of a Violent Crime
     • Breach of Peace of High & Aggravated Nature
   • Bond Status: Denied
3. Zydarius Stover, 19
   • Charge:
     • Misprision of a Felony (Failure to Report a Crime)
   • Bond Status: Set at $10,000
4. Jayvion Marcellus Wells, 18 (Hospitalized)
   • Charge:
     • Breach of Peace of High & Aggravated Nature
   • Current Status: In custody but remains hospitalized due to injuries sustained in the incident.

Wanted Suspect

• Antonio Jacquis Hayden, 18 (Still At Large)
  • Charges:
    • Accessory After the Fact of a Class A Felony
    • Misprision of a Felony (Neglect to Report a Crime)
  • Law enforcement officials have issued warrants for Hayden’s arrest and are actively seeking any information on his whereabouts. No photograph of Hayden is currently available.

Juvenile Suspect Also Facing Charges

In addition to the adult suspects, authorities have also identified a male juvenile involved in the shooting. The Department of Juvenile Justice has issued a juvenile petition, and he faces the following charges:

• Attempted Murder
• Possession of a Weapon During the Commission of a Violent Crime
• Possession of a Weapon by a Minor
• Breach of Peace of High & Aggravated Nature

Due to the suspect’s status as a minor, further identifying information has not been released.

Community Assistance Needed

Lancaster law enforcement officials are urging the public to come forward with any relevant information related to this case. Chief Roper emphasized the importance of community cooperation, stating:

“This shooting endangered not only those directly involved but also innocent bystanders. We are committed to ensuring justice is served, and we need the community’s help in gathering crucial information.”

Anyone with knowledge of the incident, the whereabouts of Antonio Jacquis Hayden, or additional evidence is encouraged to contact law enforcement:

• Lancaster Police Department: (803) 283-3313
• Lancaster County Sheriff’s Office: (803) 283-3388
• Special Operations Unit: (803) 283-1174
• Anonymous Tips: (803) 289-6040

Investigation Continues

Law enforcement has not yet disclosed a motive behind the shooting, but officials confirmed that the case remains an active and ongoing investigation. Authorities will continue to work diligently to gather evidence, interview witnesses, and ensure that all responsible parties are held accountable.

Sheriff Barry Faile reassured the public that law enforcement agencies are taking all necessary measures to maintain safety in the community, stating:

“Gun violence in our county will not be tolerated. We will pursue those responsible and bring them to justice.”

The Walmart location at Hwy 9 Bypass has since resumed operations, but the incident has left many shoppers shaken. Security measures at local businesses may be reevaluated in the coming weeks to prevent similar occurrences.

As more details emerge, updates will be provided. The community remains on high alert, and law enforcement encourages vigilance while they continue their search for Antonio Jacquis Hayden.

Final Call for Assistance

If you have any information, please reach out to the authorities immediately. Your help could be crucial in ensuring justice is served and preventing future violence in Lancaster County.