Murder charges have been filed against six individuals, including minors, in the tragic shooting death of a South Carolina mother.

Authorities in Lancaster County say the suspects, all of whom are reportedly in the U.S. illegally, range in age from just 13 to 21. 

Disturbing Murder Charges in Lancaster County

The brutal slaying has ignited outrage among law enforcement and residents alike, with the local sheriff calling the crime "a defiance of decency in civilized society."

Larisha Sharrell Thompson, 40, died from a gunshot wound. Her body was found in her vehicle on Riverside Road in Lancaster, which is located about an hour south of Charlotte, North Carolina.

“This is not just a tragedy — it’s an atrocity,” said Lancaster County Sheriff Barry Faile. “When we allow criminal illegal aliens to roam freely, we are setting the stage for devastating consequences.”

Suspects Face Possible Deportation

Asael Aminadas Torres-Chirinos, 21; Jarby Ardon Ramos-Odari, 18; and Jeyson Sobied Pineda-Salgado, 17—along with three juveniles, aged 13, 14, and 15. 

The group is also accused of involvement in a separate burglary that occurred on April 30.

All six suspects face murder charges and weapons offenses. According to WBTV, several of the accused are under the age of 18 and were taken into juvenile custody. 

The oldest suspect, age 21, is being held without bond. He has been identified as the shooter.

The sheriff’s office has confirmed that Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has been notified. As reported by WABI-TV, the suspects could face deportation if convicted.

“We are coordinating with ICE to determine the next steps,” said Faile. “Some of these individuals had no business being in this country to begin with.”

Homeland Security Acts

The Department of Homeland Security placed detainers on all six individuals charged.  Faile added that the community is a "much safer place today because these six individuals are off the streets."

The case has sparked a wider debate over immigration policy and border enforcement. Community members gathered for a candlelight vigil for Thompson, who leaves behind two young children.

“She was a mother, a friend, and a hard-working member of our community,” said neighbor Jessica Torres. “She didn’t deserve this, and we demand justice.”

National commentators have also weighed in. Investigative journalist Sara Carter highlighted the suspects’ immigration status in her coverage, calling it a “wake-up call for federal policymakers.” Read more at SaraACarter.com.

Authorities have not released a motive for the shooting but confirmed that the case remains under investigation.