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Man dies week after being shot in the head during alleged drug deal, Rock Hill police say

Two suspects arrested in the Nov. 3 shooting investigation are now being charged in a homicide.

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — A man who was shot during an armed robbery related to an alleged drug deal in Rock Hill died on Friday, Nov. 8, police said. 

The man's death comes a week after he was taken to the hospital with serious injuries. 

Rock Hill police responded to a reported shooting on Saluda Street, near the intersection with Rockdale Street, a few minutes after midnight on Saturday night. When officers arrived, they found a 21-year-old man who had been shot in the head. The victim was taken to Piedmont Medical Center where he was in critical condition. 

Officers spoke with two men who were in a black pickup truck at the scene. The men, identified as 21-year-old Christopher King Boyd and 19-year-old Demetris Franklin, claimed the man who was shot tried to rob them in the parking lot. Investigators later determined that Boyd and Franklin were meeting the man to sell him marijuana. At some point during the deal, the victim allegedly pulled out a handgun and tried to rob them. Franklin then shot the man. 

Boyd was arrested and charged with assault and battery of a high and aggravated nature and possession with intent to distribute marijuana. Franklin was charged with assault and battery of a high and aggravated nature, possession with intent to distribute marijuana and possession of a firearm during a crime of violence. 

Residents say they’re not shocked by the incident.

“I don’t think nobody who live around here is surprised. That’s just the way it is," said resident Frank Baxter.

“This is not what’s here. This is not what we’re about. Especially in Rock Hill, especially around this corner," shared another neighbor who didn't want his name shared.  

On Friday, a week after the shooting, detectives updated their charges by issuing murder warrants. 

Note: WCNC instituted a policy in March 2021 regarding the broadcast or posting of mugshots. 

WCNC will only air or post a mugshot if the person has been formally charged with a crime and in a few other cases. The exceptions include: If it appears the person could be a danger to themselves or others or if they are wanted by authorities; to differentiate between people with a common name; if the photos could encourage more victims to come forward. The news-editorial leadership may also decide to use a mugshot based on the severity of the crime(s) committed and/or the level of public interest in the crime and ensuing criminal proceedings. 

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