In Loving Memory of Youngbull Tank

In Loving Memory of Youngbull Tank

The city of Rock Hill was shaken by heartbreaking violence on Tuesday night, a tragedy that claimed innocent lives and left a community mourning. Among those lost was 19-year-old Youngbull Tank, a young man whose life ended far too soon in a devastating shootout that also took the life of a 4-year-old child.

According to the Rock Hill Police Department, officers responded to reports of gunfire on Frank Street around 7:30 p.m. When they arrived, they found two men and a young child suffering from gunshot wounds. Investigators later stated that an argument between a 19-year-old and a 34-year-old escalated into a shootout. The exchange of gunfire continued as the men left the home, and both men were struck. Tragically, a 4-year-old child inside the house was also hit during the violence.

Youngbull Tank and the child succumbed to their injuries.

In the wake of such senseless loss, facts and charges can only explain so much. Behind every headline is a human story — a life filled with memories, relationships, dreams, and potential. At just 19 years old, Youngbull Tank was at the very beginning of adulthood. He had years ahead to grow, to change, to chase ambitions, and to carve his own path in the world.

To his family and friends, he was more than a name in a report. He was someone’s son, someone’s brother, someone’s friend. He had a personality, a voice, a presence that mattered. Whether known for his energy, his loyalty, his humor, or his struggles, he was human — and his life held value.

Violence leaves behind more than physical destruction; it leaves emotional scars on families, neighborhoods, and entire communities. Rock Hill now carries the weight of this tragedy, grieving not only the loss of life but the loss of peace that once defined an ordinary Tuesday evening. Neighbors who heard the gunfire will not forget it. First responders who arrived on scene will carry those images. Most of all, families will carry the unbearable ache of absence.

Authorities have identified 34-year-old Cedric Akeen Creighton of Lancaster as facing charges including two counts of murder, possession of a weapon during a crime of violence, and unlawful possession of a firearm by a person convicted of certain crimes. He is currently being treated at a hospital for injuries and will be taken into custody upon release. The legal process will unfold in time, but no courtroom outcome can restore the lives that were lost.

As we remember Youngbull Tank, it is important to hold space for compassion and reflection. A 19-year-old life represents unfinished chapters — lessons not yet learned, forgiveness not yet given, accomplishments not yet achieved. There were conversations left unsaid and moments still waiting to happen.

His memory now lives in the hearts of those who knew him personally. It lives in shared stories, in photographs, in music played in his honor, in quiet tears shed behind closed doors. Even in tragedy, love persists. Love becomes the thread that ties together the memories that remain.

This heartbreaking event also calls the community to unity — to reject cycles of violence, to protect the innocent, and to strive for safer streets where children can grow without fear. The loss of both a young man and a child underscores the urgent need for peace and accountability.

To the family of Youngbull Tank: may you find strength in one another during this unimaginable time. May you be surrounded by support, compassion, and understanding. And may his name be remembered not solely for the tragedy, but for the person he was — complex, human, and loved.

Rest in peace, Youngbull Tank.

Your life mattered.

You are remembered.