News Summary
Authorities in South Carolina have charged six individuals, including three juveniles, in connection with the murder of Larisha Sharell Thompson. The 40-year-old woman was found dead in her vehicle. The investigation indicates she was a random target during an attempted robbery, with key evidence linking the suspects to both a burglary and the shooting. The adult suspects are facing serious charges and have been denied bond, while the investigation continues to uncover further details.
Six Charged in Shooting Death of Woman Found in Lancaster County
South Carolina authorities have charged six individuals in connection with the fatal shooting of Larisha Sharell Thompson, a 40-year-old woman discovered dead in her car on May 2, along Riverside Road in Lancaster County. The investigation revealed that Thompson was last in contact with her family while traveling from her home in Lancaster to Rock Hill.
The suspects identified include two adults and a 17-year-old male, alongside three additional juveniles whose ages are 15, 14, and 13. All adult suspects, 21-year-old Asael Aminadas Torres-Chirinos, 18-year-old Jarby Ardon Ramos-Odari, and 17-year-old Jeyson Sobied Pinedo-Salgado, face serious charges that include murder, attempted armed robbery, and second-degree burglary. Furthermore, Torres-Chirinos is also facing firearms-related charges for possession during the commission of a violent crime. All adults involved have been denied bond and are currently in custody.
The shooting occurred on April 30, prior to the discovery of Thompson’s body, which was located about seven miles from her residence. It was reported that Thompson’s vehicle remained locked when the suspects attempted to break in after the incident. Evidence suggests that she was randomly targeted during an attempted robbery. Investigators believe Torres-Chirinos fired the fatal shot at Thompson from the front passenger seat of his 2024 Honda Civic.
Initially, the case stemmed from a burglary investigation at a local store, which was reported to have been targeted by multiple young men attempting to break in the night before Thompson’s death. Ballistics evidence collected from the store aligned with that retrieved from Thompson’s vehicle, providing a crucial link between the two incidents. Following Torres-Chirinos’ arrest, investigators interrogated five additional individuals, which led to the charging of six suspects in total.
Details of the Investigation
Investigators found a handgun at Torres-Chirinos’ residence, which is believed to be connected to both the burglary and the shooting. The thorough investigation included collecting evidence from multiple crime scenes and analyzing the suspects’ involvement. Authorities are continuing to probe the circumstances surrounding the incident, urging anyone with further information to come forward.
All three juvenile suspects are set to be processed through family court, facing similar charges as their adult counterparts. Their exact involvement has not been publicly detailed, reflecting the sensitivity and legal protections surrounding juvenile cases.
Immigration Status and Law Enforcement Response
Lancaster County officials indicated that the immigration status of the adult suspects may lead to their deportation under federal law. Homeland Security has placed immigration detainers on each of the suspects, signaling potential legal repercussions beyond their charges related to the shooting.
Sheriff Barry Faile characterized the shooting as a “disgraceful act” within civilized society, reflecting the sentiments of local law enforcement regarding the violence in the community. The ongoing investigation has heightened concerns about safety and criminal activity in the area, prompting a broader conversation about youth involvement in crime.
The case continues to unfold, with Lancaster County law enforcement urging community members to assist with the investigation. Officials are seeking to ensure that justice is served while also addressing the factors contributing to such violent incidents in the community.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- WGAL: Columbia Police Statement
- Fox43: Columbia Borough Police Rumors
- ABC27: Lancaster County Shooting Investigation
- Fox43: One Injured in Lancaster Shooting
- Lancaster Online: Shooting in Lancaster City
- Wikipedia: Shooting
- Google Search: Shooting Investigations
- Google Scholar: Gun Violence
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Shooting
- Google News: Lancaster Shooting
Author: HERE Greenwood
GREENWOOD STAFF WRITER The GREENWOOD STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREGreenwood.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Greenwood, Greenwood County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Festival of Flowers, Greenwood Community Theatre performances, and agricultural showcases at the Greenwood County Fairgrounds. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greenwood Chamber of Commerce and the Greater Greenwood United Ministry, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and healthcare that power the local economy such as FujiFilm Manufacturing and Self Regional Healthcare. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERECharleston.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGreenville.com, and HEREHiltonHead.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
