July 1, 2025

Six Charged in Murder of South Carolina Woman

News Summary

In Rock Hill, South Carolina, six individuals identified as illegal immigrants have been charged with the murder of Larisha Thompson, who was shot while driving. The suspects, aged 13 to 21, face serious charges linked to an attempted car theft that led to the fatal shooting. Authorities have connected the firearm used in the crime to a prior burglary. Immigration detainers have been placed on the suspects, raising concerns about public safety and the implications of illegal immigration in the community.

Rock Hill, South Carolina – Six individuals, recently identified as illegal immigrants, have been charged in connection with the murder of 40-year-old Larisha Thompson, who was tragically killed on May 2 while driving in Lancaster. Authorities have categorized the incident as an attempt to steal Thompson’s vehicle, which tragically escalated into a fatal shooting.

The Lancaster County Sheriff’s Office has confirmed that the suspects, aged between 13 and 21, are facing serious charges including murder, attempted armed robbery, and second-degree burglary. Of the six suspects, three are adults: Asael Aminadas Torres-Chirinos (21), Jarby Ardon Ramos-Odari (18), and Jeyson Sobied Pineda-Salgado (17). The remaining three are juveniles, aged 13, 14, and 15, and will be processed through family court under the same charges.

Investigators discovered Thompson deceased behind the wheel of her vehicle on Riverside Road, victim of a gunshot wound. Reports indicate that the suspects attempted to steal her car and opened fire upon realizing she was inside. Evidence has surfaced tying the firearm used in the murder to a burglary that occurred at a local store just days prior, on April 30. The gun, a 9 mm handgun, was found in Torres-Chirinos’ residence following his arrest.

The Department of Homeland Security has taken action by placing immigration detainers on all six suspects, indicating they may face removal from the United States under federal immigration law. The ramifications of Thompson’s murder have stirred concerns among officials, including Representative Ralph Norman, who highlighted ongoing security threats posed by undocumented immigrants. He noted that this crime is not isolated to South Carolina but is part of a larger trend of criminal activity involving illegal immigration across the country.

In light of the shocking incident, Sheriff Barry Faile expressed that Thompson’s murder “defies any sense of decency in a civilized society,” emphasizing the need for accountability and heightened safety measures within the community. Surveillance footage has placed the suspects at the scene of a store break-in shortly before the murder, with cell phone data and text messages linking them to both the burglary and the murder.

Thompson’s family is in mourning, grappling with the deep loss of a mother of two. Her mother has publicly expressed her anguish and the senseless nature of her daughter’s death, calling for greater awareness and action against such crimes. This incident has highlighted the ongoing discussions regarding illegal immigration, public safety, and the protection of communities nationwide.

As investigations continue, the focus remains on the judicial proceedings against the suspects and the implications of their immigration status. Authorities are determined to ensure justice for Larisha Thompson and her grieving family, as the community comes together to support them during this tragic time.