Six undocumented individuals, aged between 13 and 21, are facing charges for the murder of 40-year-old Lalisha Charle Thompson, a mother of two, in what appears to be a random attack in Lancaster County, South Carolina.
Among those charged are Asael Torres-Chirinos, Jarby Ramos-Ardon, Jeyson Salgado-Pineda, and three minors aged 13, 14, and 15. The Lancaster County Sheriff’s Office announced their arrests in connection with Thompson’s death, which occurred on May 12.
“She was a committed worker at the Department of Veterans Affairs and Home Depot in Lancaster,” noted Thompson’s obituary.
Lalisha was celebrated for her dedication, vibrant spirit, and her commitment to helping others. She lived her life fully, enjoying activities like bowling, traveling with friends, and creating lasting memories with her daughters. Her love and strong work ethic always ensured that her children had what they needed.
According to police, Thompson was driving on the evening of May 12 when the six individuals in another vehicle shot her. After her family reported losing contact, her body was discovered hours later.
Authorities indicated that the group had allegedly attempted to rob a convenience store earlier that night.
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) confirmed that all six individuals are undocumented. Notably, Torres-Cino had previously been arrested in 2023 for domestic violence but had not been deported.
The Immigration and Customs Enforcement Agency (ICE) has placed holds on all six individuals, who remain in local police custody.
“Lalisha Challel Thompson’s life was tragically taken by these criminals,” stated DHS Deputy Director Tricia McLaughlin.
She was simply driving to a friend’s house when her life was brutally ended by those who should not have been in the country. We will continue to fight for the safety of American citizens and the victims of these crimes,” emphasized McLaughlin.
Thompson is survived by her two daughters, Schmalleona Bufford and London Benson.
