Police were called to the scene after reports of a shooting at 4:45 PM
“Dr. Robert Lesslie and his wife, Barbara Lesslie were both found in the house and died of gunshot wounds, as did their 2 grandchildren. James Lewis of Gastonia, worked at home and died of gunshot wounds,” said the sheriff’s office.
During the press conference after the shooting, Faris said that he lived in the area all his life and that “Dr. Lesslie was my doctor growing up.”
“Dr. Lesslie is one of those people everyone knows. He started Riverview Medical Center in Rock Hill and it’s been a staple in Rock Hill for years,” said Faris.
In addition to the five people killed, another person with “serious gunshot wounds” was taken to hospital, said Faris, who described the incident as a mass shooting.
“This is a very tragic, tragic situation and the family asks you to respect their privacy during this time,” said Faris.
As for the suspect, Faris said, “We’ve found the person we think is responsible and we’re with them right now.”
“That’s all I can say about that suspect,” added the spokesman.
When asked if the suspect was a neighbor, Faris said, “He lives on the same road.”
“There is no active threat to the community,” the sheriff’s office said. “Detectives are still in the area to issue a warrant and investigate this tragic event.”