Rock Hill Shooting Suspect Zachary Elias Denied Bail
ROCK HILL, S.C. (WBTV) – A judge ruled on Thursday, Dec. 5, to deny bail for 28-year-old Zachary Elias, who is accused of shooting and killing two people, and injuring another, at a smoke shop in Rock Hill on Dec. 4.
Elias faces charges of murder, attempted murder, and possession of a weapon during a violent crime following the tragic shooting at Budiman’s Smokeshop & Art Gallery on Cherry Road around 9:45 p.m. Two victims, Emad Saadalla, a customer, and Celci Johnson, an employee, were found dead at the scene. Saadalla’s wife, also injured in the attack, was rushed to the hospital for treatment.
Police revealed that a fourth individual inside the store managed to escape unharmed. Rock Hill Police Detective Rob Smith described the shooting as unprovoked, with Elias firing inside the shop before wandering to the back in search of additional victims.
During his court appearance, it was revealed that Elias had consumed a psychedelic substance earlier that day, which may have influenced his erratic behavior during the shooting. The suspect reportedly made incoherent statements while committing the crime.
The emotional court hearing included victim statements. Saadalla’s wife expressed the impact of the crime on their six children, ranging from 2 months to 15 years old. Johnson’s grandmother, speaking on behalf of her devastated family, spoke of the loss of the 27-year-old. A store customer also shared memories of the victims, describing them as kind and hardworking individuals.
Elias was arrested after a brief pursuit with police. He remains in custody at the Rock Hill Jail and will have a hearing scheduled for February 10, 2025. Investigators have yet to provide a clear motive for the attack.