Hate Crime Investigation Underway After Death of Gujarati Woman in South Carolina

Police are investigating the shooting death of Kiran Ben Patel, a Gujarati woman, in South Carolina, considering the possibility of a hate crime. The incident led to the arrest of 21-year-old Zaedan Mack Hill. The shooting occurred on Tuesday, September 16, at DD’s Food Mart. Patel, who was originally from Borsad town in the Anand district of Gujarat, had been residing in South Carolina for more than two decades. She was reportedly counting cash when the suspect entered the store wearing a mask and opened fire. Patel was shot multiple times, including in the parking lot, after attempting to flee. This incident adds to concerns about violence and potential targeting of specific communities. The victim’s children, who live in the UK and Canada, are dealing with the aftermath of her death.