Columbia Police Charge Two in Separate Violent Crimes

Columbia: Police Charge Two in Separate Violent Crimes.

Attempted Murder & Robbery

A 36-year-old man faces multiple charges for separate crimes committed in 2024. Columbia Police charged Gary A. Taylor with attempted murder, armed robbery, possession of a weapon during a violent crime, and two drug-related offenses.

Drug Distribution Case

On July 22, 2024, Taylor allegedly sold cocaine near Logan Elementary School on Park Street. Authorities say he engaged in illegal drug activity in a school zone.

Stabbing and Theft

On August 26, 2024, Taylor allegedly stabbed a woman after an argument and stole her cash on Richland Street. He was taken into custody and booked at the Alvin S. Glenn Detention Center.

Deadly Shooting Suspect

Police arrested 24-year-old Benjamin T. Patterson Jr. for a fatal shooting on Floyd Drive. He is charged with murder, illegal firearm possession, and using a weapon in a violent crime.

Incident Breakdown

On March 17, 2025, at 3:30 a.m., officers responded to a Shotspotter alert on Floyd Drive. They found 58-year-old Kevin Brown inside a vehicle with a fatal upper-body injury.

Arrest & Investigation
Authorities believe Patterson confronted Brown before the shooting. Search warrants led police to Patterson, who was arrested on Garners Ferry Road with help from the Richland County Sheriff’s Department.

Legal Consequences
Both suspects remain in custody at the Alvin S. Glenn Detention Center.