LANCASTER COUNTY, SC — Community Reels After Random Murder of Beloved Mother Larisha Sharell Thompson
On May 2, 2025, a brutal and senseless act of violence shattered the peace of Lancaster County when 40-year-old Larisha Sharell Thompson, a cherished mother of two, was fatally shot in what authorities have determined to be a random robbery attempt. The devastating news sent shockwaves through the tight-knit community—with residents mourning a woman remembered for her warmth, hard work, and love for her children.
The Tragic Events Unfold
Just before midnight on a Friday, deputies were dispatched to the 3000 block of Riverside Road, responding to reports of a vehicle stopped in the middle of the rural roadway. Inside the car, they found Thompson dead behind the wheel—her life tragically cut short by a gunshot wound .
Investigators later determined that Thompson had been driving home to Rock Hill when a group of six suspects allegedly pulled alongside her vehicle and opened fire, killing her instantly . After firing shots, the suspects reportedly attempted to open her car door but fled when they discovered she had locked it .
In the ensuing days, law enforcement rapidly identified and arrested six individuals, including three adults—21‑year‑old Asael Torres‑Chirinos, 18‑year‑old Jarby Ramos‑Ardon, and 17‑year‑old Jeyson Pineda‑Salgado—as well as three juveniles (ages 13–15) . They have all been charged with murder, attempted armed robbery, and **second-degree burglary .
A critical break in the case came from an earlier incident—a burglary at Van Wyck Mart on April 30, where the same handgun that fired at Thompson had been used to smash surveillance cameras . Ballistics testing confirmed the weapon matched the one recovered from Torres‑Chirinos’s home, linking him to both the previous burglary and Thompson’s murder .
All six suspects are reportedly in the U.S. illegally, and immigration detainers have been placed on each . Their undocumented status has ignited a heated debate over immigration, public safety, and enforcement responsibilities .
“This shooting defies any sense of decency in a civilized society… Ms. Thompson was going about her business on a Friday night, not bothering anyone.”
Thompson’s sister, Tiffany Thompson, expressed the family’s profound grief and frustration:
“Mad, angry, hurt… She would have gave it to them. We want to know.”
Larisha was deeply admired, described in her obituary as a hardworking, loving woman dedicated to her daughters, Sh’Mareona and London . She held degrees in business, healthcare, and worked for the Department of Veterans Affairs and Home Depot . A visitation and funeral service were held mid-May, marked by outpourings of love and sorrow .
• The three adults are being tried in adult court, with bond denied .
• The three juveniles face charges in juvenile court .
• DHS detainers ensure they remain in custody until legal proceedings conclude .
This tragedy has prompted statewide calls for:
• Closer coordination between local law enforcement and immigration authorities
• Stronger public safety measures along rural roadways
• Broader discussions about youth crime prevention and community outreach
The Lancaster community has been urged to remain vigilant and assist authorities. Anyone with information about the murder or related crimes is encouraged to contact the Lancaster County Sheriff’s Office.
Larisha Sharell Thompson’s sudden death is a profound loss to her family and friends. A devoted mother, student, and community volunteer, Larisha exemplified strength and kindness. Though taken in a random, violent act, her legacy of dedication, compassion, and love will continue to inspire and bind the Lancaster community together through this unthinkable loss.