Police: 3 injured in Lancaster drive-by shooting

LANCASTER, S.C. — Three people were shot early Saturday morning in Lancaster in a drive-by shooting, police said.

At about 12:40 a.m., a car drove by a house on Louise Street and fired shots, according to officials.

The three victims are in serious condition and were taken to the hospital by ambulance, according to Lancaster police.

Witnesses said a small gray or silver import vehicle that could possibly be a Honda was involved.

A woman who did not want to be identified and who lives in the house that was hit told reporter Tina Terry that her five grandchildren, ranging in age from 2 months to 14-years-old, were inside the house. She said three adult relatives were on the front porch when the shots rang out and were hit.

"There (were) so many shots. It was over 20," the woman said. 

"It's another sad day in our city," Lancaster councilwoman Tamara Green Garris said.

In 2012, she talked to Eyewitness News reporter Tina Terry after another shooting happened a half-mile away.  Saturday's shooting hit even closer to home for her.

"One of the people shot was a relative of mine," Garris said.

She said it's a frustrating cycle of violence and parents can help.

"We need to be mindful of what you teach your children at home," Garris said.

While police search for the gunman, she said she's also pondering the bigger picture. She wants state leaders to help get illegal guns in her community off the streets.

"We need gun control," Garris said.

In the meantime, she prays the community will be bold enough to help police solve this crime.

"I don't think there should be such thing as a no-snitch policy when it comes to a life," Garris said. "Life is precious."
Police didn't have a motive Saturday.

"At this point the investigation of this incident is intense and ongoing," Chief Harlean V. Carter said in a statement.

"Investigators are working diligently to ascertain the identity of the suspects in this most violent act as well as develop information as to the motive. The Lancaster Police Department has been working with citizens and the local crime watch groups in the area to address crime and disorder in this area. We continue to urge citizens to contact us with any and all information that they have concerning this incident. All information and leads developed will be followed up vigilantly."
There was no apparent motive for the shooting at this time.

If you have any information regarding the case, call the Lancaster Police Department at 803-283-1173 or the anonymous tipline at 803-289-6040.

WSOC