'Felt like a demon walked up on me': Woman says stranger sexually assaulted her while shopping

COLUMBIA, S.C. [CBS7]

A South Carolina woman is calling for greater awareness after what she describes as an unwanted sexual encounter at a beauty supply retailer on Decker Boulevard in Columbia. Destiny Ray said the incident occurred when a man entered Hair Depot, initiated conversation with her by requesting assistance selecting a dress, then made unwanted physical contact.

Ray documented the aftermath on her cellular phone, capturing footage that subsequently gained traction across social media platforms. Security recordings from the establishment corroborated her account, showing the suspect moving through the store before approaching Ray.

Authorities with the Richland County Sheriff's Department moved swiftly in response to the report. Detectives identified and apprehended 32-year-old Nicholas Lopez, charging him with indecent exposure and third-degree criminal sexual conduct. According to law enforcement, Lopez exposed himself and initiated inappropriate physical contact with the victim.

Ray expressed her immediate concern for the safety of others present in the store, particularly younger shoppers. "Let me get him out of the store. That was my thing: let me get him out of the store so we won't harm anyone else because children were in there," she explained, noting that her primary focus was preventing further incidents.

In a broader message, Ray urged other potential victims to come forward without hesitation or embarrassment. She encouraged women to document incidents and publicly identify perpetrators rather than remaining silent. "Ladies, speak up. Don't feel afraid. Don't be ashamed to speak your truth. Post it. Embarrass them because they don't care when they touch you or do anything to you," Ray said.