Tragic Loss in Lancaster County: Mother of Two, Larisha Sharell Thompson, Killed in Random Attack Involving Six Undocumented Suspects
LANCASTER COUNTY, SC – A devastating and senseless act of violence claimed the life of 40-year-old Larisha Sharell Thompson, a beloved mother of two, on May 2, 2025, shaking the community of Lancaster County to its core. Thompson, who was simply going about her day, became the innocent victim of what authorities have described as a random and violent attempted robbery that ended in murder.
According to the Lancaster County Sheriff’s Office, Thompson was inside her vehicle when gunfire erupted in an apparent attempt by a group of young suspects to rob her. One of the bullets struck Thompson, resulting in fatal injuries. Emergency services responded swiftly, but tragically, she succumbed to her wounds.
Six Suspects Charged in the Case
Authorities have since apprehended six individuals believed to be involved in the crime. The suspects include:
-
Asael Torres-Chirinos (age 21)
-
Jarby Ramos-Ardon (age 19)
-
Jeyson Salgado-Pineda (age 18)
-
Three unnamed juveniles, all under the age of 18
All six suspects are undocumented immigrants from Honduras, currently residing in the United States illegally, according to officials. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has confirmed that immigration detainers have been placed on all suspects, meaning that upon the resolution of criminal proceedings, they may face deportation proceedings.
Investigators allege that Torres-Chirinos was the individual who fired the fatal shot, while the others are being charged with varying degrees of criminal responsibility, including murder, attempted armed robbery, and weapons charges. The group reportedly fired into Thompson’s vehicle during the attempted robbery, with no indication that the victim was targeted for any personal or specific reason.
A Community in Grief
The random nature of the crime has left the community devastated and fearful. Thompson, described by friends and neighbors as a devoted mother, kind soul, and hard worker, leaves behind two children who must now grow up without their mother. The Lancaster County community has responded with an outpouring of support, including prayer vigils, fundraisers, and public calls for justice.
“This was a mother. A daughter. A friend. Someone just trying to get home,” one family friend shared during a community vigil. “She didn’t deserve this. Nobody does.”
Law Enforcement and Public Outcry
The Lancaster County Sheriff’s Office, with assistance from state and federal agencies, has been working around the clock to piece together the events of that fateful day. Officials have emphasized that the crime was random, adding that there is no evidence Thompson knew any of the suspects.
“This is one of the most tragic cases we’ve seen in recent memory,” said Lancaster County Sheriff Barry Faile. “A hardworking, innocent woman was taken from her family in a completely random act of violence. We will do everything in our power to bring justice for her and her children.”
The case has also ignited a broader public and political debate regarding immigration enforcement, border security, and the responsibilities of local, state, and federal authorities in preventing crimes involving undocumented individuals.
Justice and Next Steps
The suspects are currently being held without bond, and court proceedings are underway. Due to the involvement of juvenile suspects, additional legal processes are being followed in accordance with South Carolina juvenile law.
As the case moves through the courts, Thompson’s family continues to call for justice. A GoFundMe campaign has been established to support her children and cover funeral expenses. The community remains united in grief and resolve.
Anyone with additional information related to the case is urged to contact the Lancaster County Sheriff’s Office or Crime Stoppers at 1-888-CRIME-SC.
This tragedy is a stark reminder of the unpredictable dangers that can emerge in everyday life and the profound consequences of violent crime. As Lancaster County mourns, the memory of Larisha Sharell Thompson—her spirit, her warmth, and her role as a loving mother—lives on in the hearts of those who knew and loved her.