California: A 45-year-old Indian-origin woman, identified as Kiran Patel, was tragically shot dead in Union County, South Carolina, on September 16. Authorities have arrested 21-year-old Zaydan Mack Hill, who has been linked to multiple shootings in the area.
According to police reports, Patel was gunned down around 10:30 p.m. in a parking lot on South Mountain Street. She had been counting money at a store adjacent to a gas station when a masked gunman approached and opened fire. Witnesses said the attacker fired at least eight rounds before fleeing the scene. Patel died on the spot, leaving the local Indian-American community in deep shock and grief.
The hunt for the suspect ended dramatically on South Church Street, where officers from the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED), Union Public Safety Department, and SWAT surrounded a residence where Hill was believed to be hiding. A tense standoff lasting several hours followed, with negotiators attempting to bring the situation under control. Eventually, Hill was subdued and taken into custody without further bloodshed.
Union Police Chief Robbie McGee confirmed that Hill faces multiple charges, including two counts of murder, one count of robbery with a deadly weapon, and one count of possession of a weapon during the commission of a felony. He also noted that Hill is a suspect in other violent incidents, though details have not yet been disclosed.
“This arrest would not have been possible without the assistance of the public,” Chief McGee said, thanking residents who provided crucial information that helped track down the suspect.
The killing of Kiran Patel has left the Indian-American community shaken, with community leaders calling for greater safety measures and swift justice. Patel, originally from Gujarat, was known for her warm presence and dedication to her family. Vigils are expected to be held in her memory in the coming days.
Authorities are now investigating Hill’s alleged involvement in a string of shootings across South Carolina. Law enforcement officials say his arrest could help close several open cases linked to violent crime in the region.
For Patel’s grieving family, however, the focus remains on justice for a life cut short by senseless gun violence.