Six Migrants Charged in South Carolina Mom’s Murder Reveal Chilling Messages: “Just the Beginning”
Suspects aged 13-21, accused of murdering a South Carolina mom, show no remorse in texts, raising questions about their presence in the U.S., former AG states.
Six individuals, identified as illegal immigrants and ranging in age from 13 to 21, have been charged in connection with the fatal shooting of 40-year-old Larisha Sharell Thompson in Lancaster County, South Carolina, earlier this month. Authorities discovered Thompson deceased behind the wheel of her car on Riverside Road on May 2, having suffered a fatal gunshot wound. The incident, described by officials as a "random" robbery gone awry, has shaken the local community and ignited renewed debate over immigration enforcement.
On May 12, law enforcement officials announced the arrests of Asael Aminadas Torres-Chirinos, 21; Jarby Ardon Ramos-Odari, 18; Jeyson Sobied Pineda-Salgado, 17; and three additional juveniles aged 13, 14, and 15. The suspects face charges in connection to Thompson’s murder as well as a separate burglary at a Van Wyck convenience store days earlier. According to prosecutors, all six admitted during a recent hearing to robbing a car—further implicating themselves in criminal activity leading up to the mother's death.
Disturbing new details emerged as investigators revealed that the accused exchanged text messages after the shooting, using phrases such as "mission fail" and "this is just the beginning." Such communications, cited by officials in court, indicated not only a lack of remorse but also the possibility of further premeditated actions. "The evidence indicates… clearly, a premeditated plan," said a former state attorney general, decrying the apparent callousness displayed by the suspects.
Lancaster County authorities allege that the group pulled alongside Thompson's vehicle in an attempted robbery. When the suspects failed to access her locked car, Torres-Chirinos was identified as the individual who fired the fatal shot before the group fled the scene. The prosecution describes Torres-Chirinos as the ringleader, while defense attorneys for the juvenile suspects claim their clients were coerced into participating in the crime. All three adults as well as the juveniles now face charges of murder, attempted armed robbery, and second-degree burglary; each is being held without bond as the legal process unfolds.
Ballistics evidence collected at the murder scene was matched to a 9 mm handgun used in the earlier convenience store burglary just a seven-minute drive away. Surveillance footage and digital evidence placed Torres-Chirinos at both crime scenes, aiding investigators in quickly identifying and apprehending all six suspects by May 8. The Department of Homeland Security subsequently placed detainers on the individuals, ensuring they remain in custody pending further legal proceedings and potential removal from the United States upon resolution of their criminal cases.
As the investigation continues, community leaders stressed both concern and commitment to justice, noting that swift action from local authorities has removed dangerous individuals from area streets. "Our intention is that all six remain detained until they face the full weight of our judicial system," emphasized Sheriff Barry Faile. The case has highlighted broader concerns over immigration enforcement and public safety, leaving many residents searching for answers and seeking reassurance that such violence will not be repeated.
Decisions on possible sentences and charges—including the potential pursuit of the death penalty against the alleged shooter—lie ahead. Prosecutors may also seek cooperation from the youngest suspects in exchange for lesser penalties. Meanwhile, the memory of Larisha Thompson and the pain experienced by her family remain central as the South Carolina justice system moves to provide accountability and closure.
