Columbia Police Department arrest man in connection with fatal shooting at Willow Run Apartments

COLUMBIA, S.C. (WOLO) – Columbia Police Department investigators have arrested a man in connection with this morning’s fatal shooting at Willow Run Apartments.

Antonio Vashon Barnes, 24, charged with two counts of murder and possession of a weapon during a violent crime.

Investigators believe that Barnes shot and killed a male roommate and a male acquaintance inside the apartment after he heard a commotion in the living room and found the two victims arguing and fighting.

Barnes will be housed at the Alvin S. Glenn Detention Center.

Richland County Coroner’s Office will be releasing the names of the victims’ Friday.

One of the victims was described as a stand up man who loved his family and now, friends and family  just want answers as to why two young lives had to be taken.

Columbia Police say several people called 911 to report a shooting at the Willow Run apartments, but by the time they arrived on scene, the two men had already passed away.

“At this point, given the information we have, we believe there was a third individual who may have information regarding what happened here,” Jennifer Timmons said, with Columbia Police said.

Secedrick Harris says he was shocked when his friends called saying there was a shooting at his old apartment complex and it was someone he knew.

“He’s like my little brother. He is my little brother. His family is my family. We grew up together,” Harris said. 

Right now, little is known as the investigation is ongoing they hope the community can help piece together what happened so that their loved ones can have answers.  

“It’s very difficult for us as a Columbia Police department to see their grief. We see it all too often. People don’t realize their actions have rippling effects. It’s not just an immediate one victim, two victims, like in this case, it’s a rippling effect. It hurts so many people,” Timmons said.

The ripples could be felt throughout the Willow Run community as friends and family held onto each other in their grief.

“I’d say I love you little brother. I got you. I got your momma, I got your little brother, I got your family. You’re my little brother forever and I love you,” Harris said.