🌱 Woman Accidentally Shoots Self At Mall + Free DHEC COVID Tests

Up and at 'em, Columbia! Let's get you started this Monday with everything you need to know going on today in Columbia.

First, today's weather:

Plenty of sunshine. High: 53 Low: 36.

Here are the top three stories in Columbia today:

1. A 24-year-old woman accidentally shot herself while at a Columbia mall. According to police, the incident happened around 3:00 p.m. at the Columbiana Centre Mall; no one else is reported to be injured. Officials are investigating to see whether the firearm was allowed at the mall, as well as whether the woman was legally permitted to possess it in the first place. (WACH.com)
2. The Richland County Sheriff's Department continues its search for a missing teen with medical issues. 16-year-old Elissa Luker has not been seen since Jan. 17 after getting into a gray or silver four-door sedan. Luker could reportedly be in either Richland County or Lexington County; anyone with information on her whereabouts is asked to contact CrimeStoppers or submit an online tip. (Rock Hill Herald)
3. The South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC) will begin distributing free at-home COVID-19 tests today. The DHEC has reportedly received approximately 140,000 of its requested two million tests, which will be available at various pick-up locations statewide. 50% of these tests will be available for the community, while the other 50% will be given to first responders. (Abccolumbia.com)

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Today in Columbia:

• Amos Hoffman Trio - Smoked (6:00 PM)

From my notebook:

• Whether you're looking for places to recommend to visiting friends or just want to enjoy a staycation, Experience Columbia SC has you covered. Check out the organization's best travel tips and local scoops. (Instagram)
• Join PETSinc for a family board game night on Friday, Jan. 28! Admission is $3 or a Wish List item per person. (Facebook)
• Looking for a COVID-19 vaccine for yourself or your family? Here's a list of locations in the Columbia area offering vaccinations. (Instagram)

More from our sponsors — thanks for supporting local news!

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You're officially in the loop for today. I'll be back in your inbox tomorrow with another update!

— Dan Casarella

About me: Dan Casarella is a writer, podcast producer, and small business development specialist who formerly worked in late-night television. He’s produced many talk segments, including with President Joe Biden, Kobe Bryant, and Chadwick Boseman. Dan studied Media Studies and Production at Temple University. He also enjoys running, painting, and the highs and lows of Philadelphia’s sports teams.