Jury deliberates in trial of South Carolina store owner who fatally shot Black teen

Jury began deliberations in the trial of Columbia store owner Chikei Rick Chow, who admits he shot 14-year-old Cyrus Carmack-Belton in 2023.
Defense says Chow fired to protect his son after the teen allegedly pointed a gun; prosecutors and several witnesses say the teen was chased and shot in the back and never threatened anyone.
The killing sparked vigils and protests in Richland County, with empty water bottles arranged to spell “Cyrus” as a symbol of community grief and outrage.