A South Carolina congressman has issued a stark warning about public safety following the shocking murder of a mother of two, highlighting growing concerns about violent crimes committed by individuals who entered the country illegally. Republican Representative Ralph Norman's comments come in the wake of a devastating incident that has left a community in mourning and raised questions about border security.

According to Fox News, six illegal immigrants, ranging from ages 13 to 21, have been charged in connection with the "random" murder of Larisha Thompson, who was shot while driving to meet friends in Rock Hill on May 2. The incident has sparked renewed debate about immigration policies and public safety across the nation.

The case has drawn particular attention because of its seemingly random nature and the ages of the suspects involved. Thompson, 40, was found dead behind the wheel of her vehicle on Riverside Road in Lancaster, South Carolina, approximately an hour south of Charlotte, North Carolina, leaving behind two children and a grieving community.

Disturbing Details Emerge from Investigation

Lancaster County Sheriff's Office has revealed that the primary suspect, Asael Aminadas Torres-Chirinos, 21, allegedly fired the fatal shot during what authorities describe as a random robbery attempt. Two other adult suspects, Jarby Ardon Ramos-Odari, 18, and Jeyson Sobied Pineda-Salgado, 17, along with three juveniles aged 13, 14, and 15, were also charged in connection with the crime.

The suspects allegedly pulled alongside Thompson's vehicle and attempted to enter it, fleeing only after discovering it was locked. All six individuals are now subject to removal from the United States under federal immigration law, with the Department of Homeland Security placing detainers on each suspect.

Sheriff Barry Faile expressed his outrage during a press conference, stating that Thompson's "shooting defies any sense of decency in a civilized society." The adult suspects face charges of murder, attempted armed robbery, and second-degree burglary, with Torres-Chirinos facing additional weapons charges.

Connected Crime Spree Reveals Pattern

Investigators have linked the suspects to another crime that occurred just days before Thompson's murder. On April 30, the same group allegedly attempted to burglarize the Van Wyck Mart on Rock Hill Highway, breaking into the building and firing a handgun at security cameras.

Ballistic evidence collected from both crime scenes confirmed that the same 9mm handgun was used in both incidents. This discovery led investigators to identify Torres-Chirinos through digital surveillance, ultimately resulting in the arrest of all six suspects.

The connection between the two crimes, occurring just seven minutes apart by driving distance, suggests a pattern of escalating criminal behavior that culminated in Thompson's tragic death. Authorities were able to question Torres-Chirinos on May 8, leading to the swift identification and detention of the remaining suspects.

National Security Implications Surface

Representative Norman emphasized that this case highlights broader national security concerns stemming from border policies. He pointed to several other high-profile cases involving victims of crimes allegedly committed by illegal immigrants, including Laken Riley, Lizbeth Medina, Jocelyn Nungaray, Rachel Morin, and Kayla Hamilton.

The congressman expressed particular concern about the unknown number of individuals who may have entered the country illegally with criminal intentions during recent years. He stressed the importance of maintaining law and order while acknowledging the challenges faced by law enforcement in addressing these issues.

Norman has called for maximum prosecution of the adult suspects, suggesting that prosecutors should consider pursuing the death penalty in Thompson's murder case. The severity of the crime and its impact on the community have led to increased calls for stricter border security measures.

Lessons to learn from this tragedy

1. Remain vigilant even in low-crime environments. Thompson was simply driving to visit friends when the attack occurred. Always maintain awareness of your surroundings and avoid distractions, even in familiar areas.

2. Keep doors locked while driving or parked. Authorities believe the suspects fled when they couldn’t open Thompson's doors. A locked car can be a critical deterrent and may prevent potential assailants from gaining access.

3. Recognize that crime can happen to anyone. Regardless of precautions, no one can predict when danger will strike. It’s important to adopt reasonable safety measures, but never place blame on victims for crimes inflicted upon them.

Why this story matters

This tragedy underscores the very real consequences of violent crime and the complex intersection between community safety and immigration enforcement. Thompson’s death is not just a personal loss, but a societal one that has intensified political rhetoric and concern regarding public protection. Highlighting such stories ensures that both policymakers and citizens remain alert to issues that impact people’s daily lives.

Conclusion

Larisha Sharell Thompson was shot and killed on May 2, 2025, during what investigators say was an attempted robbery by six illegal immigrants in Lancaster, South Carolina. All six suspects, ranging in age from 13 to 21, were later tied to a local store burglary just days before using the same firearm. Public officials and family members have spoken out, mourning the loss of a community member and mother, while raising questions about border enforcement and public safety. With the suspects now in custody and facing serious charges, Lancaster authorities say the streets are safer, but the emotional toll remains. Elected leaders have vowed to pursue justice and review policies in response to this alarming incident.