Cyrus Carmack-Belton

The Cyrus Carmack-Belton Foundation was established to honor the life, legacy, and enduring impact of Cyrus Carmack-Belton, a remarkable young man whose kindness, compassion, and light continue to inspire a movement for justice, hope, and meaningful change.

On May 28, 2023, 14-year-old Cyrus Carmack-Belton was tragically killed in Columbia, South Carolina. He was shot in the back and killed after being falsely accused of shoplifting bottled water from a local convenience store and chased away by the store owner. Investigators later confirmed that Cyrus did not steal anything from the store. His life was taken far too soon, forever changing the lives of his family, friends, and the community that loved him. While nothing can erase the profound loss of Cyrus, we believe his legacy can become a catalyst for positive change.

Cyrus was much more than the tragedy that took his life. He was a joyful son, a devoted brother, a cherished grandson, and a loyal friend. He had a heart for people, a contagious smile, and a spirit that brought comfort and laughter wherever he went. He dreamed of graduating, building a career, traveling the world, becoming a husband, and one day raising a family of his own. Those dreams were stolen, but his purpose lives on.

The Foundation was born from a mother's promise: that Cyrus's name would never be remembered solely for how he died, but celebrated for how he lived and the impact his life continues to have. Today, the Cyrus Carmack-Belton Foundation is dedicated to creating opportunities for young people, supporting families affected by violence, and fighting for systemic change at the local, state, and federal levels.

Through advocacy, legislative reform, community organizing, and strategic partnerships, we work to end unjust violence, hold aggressors accountable, and transform the systems that allow tragedies like Cyrus's death to happen. We envision a nation where every child is safe, valued, and protected—regardless of race, zip code, or circumstance.

Cyrus's death is not just a local tragedy—it is a call to action for our entire nation. We are committed to raising awareness, changing laws, and demanding accountability so that no other family has to endure this pain. His story is one of love. His legacy is one of hope. His impact is only beginning. Together, we can transform grief into purpose, reform unjust systems, and ensure that Cyrus Carmack-Belton's light continues to shine for generations to come.