Boy’s short foster placement ends in death at politician’s residence, officials say

July 24, 2026

Tragic Death of a 13-Year-Old in South Carolina

A temporary foster situation in South Carolina took a grim turn when, unfortunately, two teenagers attacked a 13-year-old boy, leading to his drowning. Authorities say Darryl Martinez Lowry, just 13, had recently arrived at the home of McCormick County Council President Bernie Hamby, waiting for another foster placement.

Reports indicate that the two suspects were also foster children at the same residence. One of them, 17-year-old Landen Austin Moore, faces murder charges after allegedly stabbing Lowry during a confrontation in the early morning hours of July 20. It was stated that after the stabbing incident, he held both Lowry and another teen underwater until Lowry lost consciousness.

This tragic event occurred at a private boat launch on Beauregard Drive in Modoc, South Carolina. According to an arrest warrant, Lowry suffered injuries from the knife attack and was subsequently submerged underwater by the unnamed 16-year-old boy, who is accused of having acted with malicious intent.

The case is currently under investigation by the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED), which took over after the McCormick County Sheriff’s Office requested assistance. Moore has been booked into the McCormick County Detention Center following his arrest.

The second suspect has been transferred to a juvenile facility, but as of now, the authorities have not announced any formal charges against him. Hamby reportedly was asleep during the incident, and it’s important to note that there’s no indication he witnessed or participated in the tragic event.

Lowry’s family described him as a bright child, full of life and love. His relatives shared their heartbreak at his untimely death, emphasizing the smile he brought to those around him. His aunt vowed to seek justice for him in a poignant social media tribute.

This incident, devastating for the rural community, has prompted an outpouring of condolences from Sheriff Chad Cox and various supporting agencies involved in investigating the case. The sheriff expressed deep sadness and gratitude for the community’s safety, affirming that such violent acts are uncommon in their area.

As this investigation progresses, the truth surrounding the events leading to Lowry’s tragic death remains a priority for the authorities, and the case will be prosecuted by the South Carolina Attorney General’s Office.