LANCASTER COUNTY, S.C. (WBTV) — Six suspects, including three juveniles and three adults, have been arrested and charged in connection with the tragic murder of 40-year-old Larisha Thompson in Lancaster County, South Carolina. The suspects, ages 13 to 21, were apprehended following a thorough investigation that tied them to both the murder and an attempted burglary at a local mart.
Authorities responded to a report of a missing woman on the night of May 2, after Thompson’s family lost contact with her. Law enforcement later found her Honda Accord in the 3000 block of Riverside Road, where she was pronounced dead from a gunshot wound. Investigators identified three adults among the suspects: 21-year-old Asael Torres-Chirinos, 18-year-old Jarby Ramos-Odari, and 17-year-old Jeyson Pineda-Salgado. These three were charged with murder, attempted armed robbery, and second-degree burglary, and are being held in jail without bond.
The investigation revealed a disturbing link between Thompson’s murder and an attempted burglary that took place at Van Wyck Mart two days earlier. Surveillance footage and ballistics evidence showed that the same 9mm handgun was used in both incidents. Digital evidence further placed Torres-Chirinos at both crime scenes, and his vehicle was found to be involved in the crimes.
On the night of the murder, Torres-Chirinos allegedly fired shots at Thompson’s car from the front passenger seat of his own vehicle, which was occupied by the other suspects. The assailants reportedly tried to gain entry to Thompson’s vehicle but were unsuccessful before fleeing the scene. Tragically, Thompson died at the scene, prompting a swift investigation.
Sheriff Barry Faile condemned the brutal act, saying, “This shooting defies any sense of decency in a civilized society.” He described it as a senseless act of violence against a woman simply going about her day. Sheriff Faile also confirmed that Department of Homeland Security detainers have been placed on all six suspects, ensuring they remain in custody until their trials are completed. He noted that these detainers do not guarantee immediate deportation but are designed to prevent their release if they become eligible for bail.
The sheriff praised the swift action and collaboration of law enforcement agencies, including the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED), which played a crucial role in apprehending the suspects quickly.
This case continues to develop, and more charges may be filed as the investigation progresses. The sheriff’s office remains committed to ensuring that the suspects face the full legal consequences for their actions.
