WJ Keenan High student Julian Keel killed in weekend shooting

COLUMBIA, SC — Columbia police are asking for the public’s help in locating a suspect in connection with the shooting of a 16-year-old Keenan High School student over the weekend.

Julian Armel Keel was shot and killed around 12:30 a.m. Sunday in the parking lot of Roll-Out Wangz, Eggrollz and Thangz Bar and Restaurant in the 1400 block of Colonial Life Boulevard, off Bush River Road. Keel was a rising senior at Keenan and a three-sport athlete.

According to the Columbia Police (CPD), several teenagers were attending a graduation party at the restaurant between Saturday night and Sunday morning when a fight broke out in the parking lot and shots were fired. After the event, more than 50 bullets from at least four different firearms were recovered.

Keel attempted to flee when he was struck in the upper body. He was taken to a local hospital where he later succumbed to his injuries.

CPD investigators believe Keel was an innocent bystander at the time of the shooting and was not involved in the fight.

Richland One Board of School Commissioners Chairman Dr. Aaron Bishop released a statement on Keel’s death, saying:

“It is with profound sadness and heavy hearts that Richland County School District One, and specifically WJ Keenan High School, is confronted with the devastating loss of one of our students to gun violence over the weekend. During this time of immense grief, we extend our deepest condolences to the grieving family, knowing there are no words that can adequately express the grief we feel. As a community, we stand together in solidarity and offer our support and love to the family, friends, and all those affected by this senseless act of violence. This tragic event touches us all and is a stark reminder of the urgency of addressing the pervasive problem of gun violence in our society.

In times like these, we are reminded of the importance of fostering a spirit of peace and understanding. Let us honor the memory of the young life lost by committing to actions that promote kindness and prevent such tragedies in the future. Richland County School District One is committed to supporting our students, staff and families during this tremendously difficult time. Counselors and support staff are available to assist anyone who needs help coping with this devastatingly tragic loss.

Let us come together in our grief to advocate for change and work toward a safer future for our community and our children.

We encourage our community to support one another and seek help when needed. Together, we will get through this heartbreaking time and strengthen our shared commitment to peace and justice.”

CPD Chief Skip Holbrook is asking the public for help in locating the suspect(s) and obtaining information about the incident. Anyone who attended the event or took photos or videos of the party, fight, shooting or the aftermath is asked to come forward with information to investigators. Information can remain anonymous and will be used solely for law enforcement purposes.