Threats from Open Borders: South Carolina Lawmakers React

Lawmakers in South Carolina have raised alarms about the dangers faced by Americans after years of open borders, especially following the tragic murders of two mothers in Lancaster last month.

The remarks were prompted by the arrest of six undocumented immigrants, aged between 13 and 21, linked to the murder of Larisha Thompson on May 2nd. Thompson was shot while driving to meet a friend in Rock Hill.

“These two children are now without a mother to return to,” said South Carolina Republican Rep. Ralph Norman in a phone conversation with Fox News Digital. “Such violence can occur at any time and anywhere. That’s the heartbreaking reality. We’re witnessing it nationwide.”

Norman also mentioned Laken Reilly, a student at Augusta University who was fatally shot by an illegal immigrant in February 2024, indicating she has come to symbolize the crimes committed by unauthorized individuals in the U.S. He noted that there have been similar victims across various states, mentioning Thompson along with names like Lizbeth Medina and others.

“While we’re reassured that borders are safer now, it’s crucial to recognize the situation. We’ve kept the doors open, inviting people from over 160 countries—some of whom are criminals seeking entry,” Norman remarked. “No one would leave their home unattended like that. The Democrats still haven’t held Joe Biden accountable for these choices. But hopefully, things will improve soon.”

According to the Lancaster County Sheriff’s Office, Thompson, 40, was shot in a vehicle on Riverside Road, south of Charlotte, North Carolina. On May 12, three adults were arrested in connection with the case.

“The unknown is a source of fear,” Norman said when discussing potential dangers from individuals who may have crossed into the U.S. illegally during Biden’s presidency. “If you pay attention, [FBI Director] Kash Patel talks about the threats… Yes, they’re trying their best to keep us safe, but the reality is we don’t truly know who’s here. And many who cross are still unaccounted for. Why does death have to be this senseless?”

Norman expressed his hope that the death penalty will be pursued against an adult suspect in Thompson’s murder.

“South Carolina is wonderful,” he stated, but emphasized the need for vigilance and hard work from the community.

At a May press conference, Sheriff Barry Ferrue described Thompson’s shooting as a violation of the basic decency in society. “Thompson was simply working on her business when these six individuals approached her car, apparently intent on committing robbery. Such acts have no place in our community. I hope we never have to encounter individuals like them again,” he articulated.

The Department of Homeland Security confirmed that they are detaining all six suspects, categorizing the community as significantly safer without them.

Reports indicated Thompson’s murder stemmed from what authorities describe as “a random robbery attempt.” It’s believed that five other suspects were in the car at the time, attempting to access her vehicle before fleeing when they realized the doors were locked.

Investigators uncovered video surveillance showing young males entering a store just prior to the incident. One suspect is also accused of shooting at a security camera and firing a handgun.

Detectives linked evidence from the murder scene to the same firearm used in the robbery days earlier, leading them to identify Torres Kirino at both locations.

After questioning him, authorities detained five more suspects by the end of the day on May 8.

Charges against the adult suspects include murder and attempted armed robbery. The judge denied bail for all three. The juvenile suspects face similar charges, and all six will face removal from the U.S. under immigration laws.

Thompson’s family is left grappling with their loss, struggling to comprehend how such a tragedy could occur.