West Columbia Man Arrested After Fatal Shooting on I-26 in Newberry County
Newberry County, SC — Authorities have identified Wilfrido George Luna, 45, of West Columbia, as the suspect arrested in connection with a deadly shooting that took place Monday morning on Interstate 26 near Exit 82 West (Prosperity). The incident, which briefly placed nearby schools on lockdown, resulted in the death of an unidentified female victim and prompted a swift and coordinated law enforcement response.
The Shooting on I-26
According to the Newberry County Sheriff’s Office, the shooting occurred during the morning hours along the exit ramp of I-26. Luna allegedly shot a female victim, who has not yet been publicly identified pending notification of her family. Following the shooting, Luna fled on foot, crossing both lanes of the interstate in the direction of the Mid Carolina Country Club.
The victim was later pronounced deceased, and the Newberry County Coroner’s Office has assumed responsibility for confirming her identity and releasing her name.
Arrest at Mid Carolina Country Club
After fleeing the scene, Luna was tracked by a coalition of law enforcement agencies, including Newberry County Sheriff’s Deputies, Probation, Parole and Pardon Agents, and Newberry City Police Officers. Officers located Luna in the parking lot of the Mid Carolina Country Club, where he was reportedly armed.
A brief standoff ensued, but authorities were able to take Luna into custody without further violence. He was subsequently transported to the Newberry County Detention Center, where he is being held on murder charges.
Because of the seriousness of the charges, Luna must appear before a Circuit Court Judge for bond consideration.
Crime Scene and Road Closures
The South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) was called to the scene to assist with forensic analysis, while South Carolina Highway Patrol and Transport Police worked to close off the exit ramp to secure the area and preserve evidence.
The rapid law enforcement response prevented additional harm and allowed for the scene to be safely contained within a short period of time.
School Lockdown and Public Safety
Given the close proximity of the Mid Carolina schools to the unfolding incident, authorities ordered a temporary lockdown out of an abundance of caution. Sheriff’s officials confirmed that Luna was armed at the time, which heightened concerns for community safety.
The lockdown lasted less than 30 minutes before it was lifted, once Luna had been safely taken into custody.
Sheriff Foster’s Statement
Newberry County Sheriff Lee Foster praised the quick action of law enforcement agencies and local civilians who assisted during the chaotic moments following the shooting.
“This was a dangerous and fluid situation. Our deputies, along with partner agencies, acted swiftly and decisively to ensure that Mr. Luna was taken into custody before any more harm could be done,” Sheriff Foster said.
He also emphasized the bravery of several witnesses at the scene, commending their assistance in helping law enforcement track the suspect.
Sheriff Foster reassured the public that the shooting was an isolated incident, and there is no ongoing danger to the community.
Ongoing Investigation
The Newberry County Sheriff’s Office continues to investigate the circumstances leading up to the shooting. Detectives are working to establish a motive and timeline of events.
The Newberry County Coroner’s Office will release the identity of the victim once her family has been notified. Authorities have not yet confirmed whether there was a prior relationship between Luna and the victim.
This case remains active, and further updates will be provided as additional details are released.
