Hostage Situation Over in Charleston, Suspect Shot

Photo by Nick Milak

CHARLESTON, SC (WOLO, ABC News) – The Mayor of Charleston confirmed Thursday (8/24) afternoon that a shooting suspect has been shot and is on the way to a hospital. He says one person was killed in a hostage situation at the restaurant where the suspect worked.

The suspect was a disgruntled employee of Virginia’s on King.

One hostage was also injured.

Police described the situation as dangerous. Officers were initially dispatched at 12:17 p.m.

“We do ask our community’s prayers for one family today, because one person has been killed today,” Mayor Tecklenburg said.

King Street between Calhoun and Morris streets was blocked to vehicle and pedestrian traffic as multiple law enforcement agencies worked the scene.

Charleston Police Department Interim Chief Jerome Taylor said the suspect was shot by City of Charleston Police officers. He said a loud bang heard earlier in the afternoon, feared to be a gunshot, was a grenade used as a distraction.

Police pushed the perimeter back farther and farther until around 3 p.m. when the situation seemed to be resolved.