NOT GUILTY: Jury Clears Rick Chow in 2023 Shooting Death of 14-Year-Old Cyrus Carmack-Belton

COLUMBIA, S.C. — A Richland County jury has found Rick Chow not guilty in the 2023 shooting death of 14-year-old Cyrus Carmack-Belton, a case that has been closely watched across Columbia and the Midlands.

Chow was charged after the May 28, 2023 shooting outside his Shell gas station on Parklane Road in Columbia. Authorities said Chow and his son chased Carmack-Belton after accusing him of stealing bottles of water from the store.

Prosecutors argued the theft accusation was not supported by surveillance video and questioned whether the shooting was justified. The defense argued Chow fired to protect his son, claiming the teen had pointed a weapon during the confrontation.

After hours of deliberation, the jury sided with the defense and returned a not guilty verdict.

Social media quickly filled with comments from people expressing disbelief, frustration, sadness, and debate over the outcome. Some questioned whether the case should have been charged differently. Others focused on the larger issue of justice, accountability, and how the community moves forward after such a painful case.

The verdict closes the criminal trial, but the conversation around this case is far from over.

The Buck Report will continue to follow community reaction, family statements, public response, and any future developments connected to this story.