'We do not accept it': Family reacts to acquittal in fatal shooting of 14-year-old
Summary
A South Carolina jury found Chikei Rick Chow not guilty in the 2023 shooting death of 14-year-old Cyrus Carmack-Belton. The victim’s family expressed sadness and said they will continue fighting the case in civil court.Key Facts
- Cyrus Carmack-Belton, age 14, was shot in the back by Chikei Rick Chow in May 2023 outside Chow’s convenience store in Columbia, South Carolina.
- Chow, 61, was charged with murder but was acquitted by a jury on June 1, 2026.
- Video showed Carmack-Belton running away and returning water bottles he was accused of stealing.
- Prosecutors said Chow acted on a mistaken belief that Carmack-Belton had shoplifted.
- The defense said Chow shot to protect his son after Carmack-Belton allegedly pointed a gun.
- A 9mm pistol was found near Carmack-Belton, which prosecutors said he carried during the chase.
- The victim’s family said they do not accept the verdict and plan to sue in civil court.
- They linked their loss to broader issues of violence against Black families and injustice in the legal system.
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