Columbia Woman Fatally Shot on Her 42nd Birthday; Boyfriend Wanted by Police

COLUMBIA, SC — A woman was fatally shot inside her Columbia home on her 42nd birthday, and police are now searching for her boyfriend, who is wanted in connection with the killing.

The incident took place Sunday night on Levity Street in north Columbia. Officers responding to the scene found Monique Worthy already deceased. Investigators believe the shooting was domestic in nature.

Suspect identified as Cordera Hopkins

Police have named 36-year-old Cordera Hopkins as the primary suspect in the case. According to investigators, once Hopkins is located, he will face multiple charges including:

• Murder

• Possession of a weapon during a violent crime

• Unlawful possession of a firearm by a convicted felon

So far, Columbia Police have stated they do not believe Hopkins poses a threat to the general public, but they urge anyone with information to immediately contact 911 or Crimestoppers at 888-CRIME-SC.

Community reaction and neighborhood concerns

Residents of the area said police remained on scene for several hours after the shooting. Neighbor Cedric Hoefer said authorities stayed “all night after 12 o’clock,” and remembered Worthy as a caring person often seen with her daughter and local kids.

“She’s out there with them,” Hoefer said of Worthy’s time spent in the neighborhood.

Other residents said the incident is now prompting discussions about home security upgrades, with one neighbor telling reporters, “Me and my husband are talking about getting some type of security system.”

Police confirmed to WLTX News that they are still working to determine whether previous domestic disturbance calls were made to the home. A Freedom of Information Act request has been filed to obtain any such records.

How can South Carolina better protect victims of domestic violence? Share your thoughts in the comments — and follow developing crime stories at SaludaStandard-Sentinel.com.