Celci Johnson and Emad Thabet Saadalla die in fatal Rock Hill smoke shop shooting
Fatal Rock Hill smoke shop shooting death of Celci Johnson and Emad Thabet Saadalla – Obituary.
A tragic shooting at Budiman’s Smokeshop & Art Gallery on Cherry Road in Rock Hill claimed the lives of 27-year-old Celci Johnson, an employee, and 49-year-old customer Emad Thabet Saadalla. A third individual sustained injuries and was transported to a local hospital for treatment.
Authorities responded to the incident around 9:40 p.m. Wednesday after reports of gunfire. Upon arrival, officers identified a suspect, 28-year-old Zachary East Elias of Columbia, who fled in a silver Dodge truck. A chase ensued, ending in a crash near the bridge over the Catawba River.
Following the crash, Elias confronted officers. Despite attempts to de-escalate the situation, including the use of a stun gun, a struggle ensued before he was subdued and taken into custody. Elias faces multiple charges, including two counts of murder and attempted murder.
Inside the smoke shop, police discovered three individuals with gunshot wounds. Johnson and Saadalla were pronounced dead at the scene. A fourth person managed to escape uninjured.
The highway near the incident was closed for investigation until early Thursday morning but has since reopened. Rock Hill authorities continue to investigate the case.