Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools teacher arrested in South Carolina after Sam’s Club assault allegation and racial slur claim

Arrest follows reported confrontation in Columbia, South Carolina

A Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools elementary teacher has been arrested in South Carolina in connection with an alleged assault at a Sam’s Club in Columbia that investigators say began with a reported racial slur.

Authorities in Richland County said deputies were called to the Sam’s Club location on Fashion Drive at about 1:30 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 15, 2026, after a reported fight involving customers standing in a checkout line. Investigators identified the suspect as Ashley Murff, 42.

What investigators say happened inside the store

Based on the initial report taken by deputies, the alleged victim told law enforcement that another woman used a racial slur toward her while they were in line, sparking a verbal dispute. During the argument, the victim said she attempted to take a photograph of the woman. Investigators say the suspect then punched the victim in the face, and a physical altercation followed.

Authorities said the suspect left the store before deputies arrived. Investigators later obtained and reviewed store surveillance footage as part of the inquiry, then secured an arrest warrant.

• Incident date and time: Saturday, Feb. 15, 2026, about 1:30 p.m.
• Location: Sam’s Club on Fashion Drive in Columbia, South Carolina
• Allegation: racial slur followed by a punch and fight in the checkout line
• Investigative step cited by authorities: review of store surveillance footage prior to a warrant

Charges and custody status

Murff was arrested Wednesday, Feb. 18, 2026, and charged with third-degree assault and battery, a misdemeanor under South Carolina law. Jail records and law-enforcement statements indicate she was booked into the Alvin S. Glenn Detention Center in Richland County. Authorities said she was being held pending a bond hearing.

The allegations and the criminal charge are pending in the court process. A charge is not evidence of guilt, and the case outcome will depend on future proceedings.

Employment status with Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools

Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools confirmed Murff is employed by the district and identified her as a teacher at Winget Park Elementary School in southwest Charlotte. The district said she has been suspended with pay while an internal investigation is conducted. The district also stated the reported incident occurred off campus and was not related to school operations.

What remains unknown

Investigators have not publicly released additional details about any injuries, whether medical treatment was required, or whether additional charges could be considered. The investigation and court process will determine what evidence is introduced beyond the initial report and surveillance review described by authorities.