UNION, S.C. (Diya TV) — An Indian-origin woman was fatally shot during an armed robbery at a Union County convenience store on Sept. 16. Police have arrested a 21-year-old suspect and charged him with her murder and two other shootings.
Kiran Patel, 49, managed DD’s Food Mart on South Pinckney Street. She was found lying in the parking lot with gunshot wounds around 10:30 p.m. and was pronounced dead at the scene. Local reports describe Patel as a hardworking immigrant and the sole worker on duty that night.
Authorities took Zaedan Mack Hill into custody on Sept. 19 following an hours-long standoff. The South Carolina Law Enforcement Division, SWAT, and Union Public Safety officers were involved in the operation. Hill, 21, now faces charges for Patel’s murder and two additional shootings.
Earlier the same day, officers discovered 67-year-old Charles Nathan Crosby unresponsive in a yard on South Mountain Street in Union. He appeared to have been shot, according to police. Investigators later linked both shootings through forensic evidence, including nine-millimeter shell casings found at the scenes.
A GoFundMe page set up to help Patel’s family provided details of the attack. It said Patel was counting cash at the register when Hill allegedly approached, climbed onto the counter, and opened fire before she could hand over the money.
During the attack, Patel reportedly threw a plastic bottle at Hill and tried to flee. The suspect pursued her, firing shots as she ran toward the parking lot. Patel was struck and fell about 20 feet away. Hill allegedly returned to fire at her while she lay unconscious before fleeing the scene.
Patel’s death has shocked the Union County community. Neighbors described her as friendly, hardworking, and dedicated to her store. A GoFundMe page has raised funds to support her family and cover funeral expenses. Many residents have shared messages of grief and support online.
Police continue to investigate the case. Hill is currently held at the Union County Jail without bond. Authorities urge anyone with additional information to come forward.
