S.C. Man, 80, Allegedly Murders 11-Year-Old Girl — Then Confesses that He Murdered His Wife as Well: Police

An 80-year-old man in South Carolina has been accused of a heinous crime, allegedly murdering an 11-year-old girl and his own wife. The shocking incident unfolded in a quiet neighbourhood, leaving the community in disbelief. The suspect, Reuben Leonard, has been charged with two counts of first-degree murder and multiple counts of attempted murder, according to the Sumter County Sheriff’s office.

The tragic events occurred on the night of April 16 when Leonard purportedly entered his neighbours’ house armed with an assault rifle and opened fire at the occupants inside. Among the victims was an 11-year-old girl, identified as Ashly McFarland by the Sumter County Coroner’s Office. The young girl’s father was also injured while trying to confront the shooter during the terrifying ordeal.

Authorities were alerted to the scene just before 11 p.m., where they found family members restraining Leonard. Despite efforts from emergency medical technicians, Ashly succumbed to her injuries at the scene. The situation took a chilling turn when Leonard allegedly confessed to the police that he had also taken the life of his wife, 76-year-old Felicia Leonard, in their own home.

Investigators uncovered a history of tension between Leonard and his neighbours, stemming from their legal target shooting activities in the backyard. The repeated complaints made by the suspect to law enforcement about his neighbours indicate a longstanding dispute that escalated tragically on that fateful night. Leonard had even been arrested just two days prior to the incident for a breach of peace charge.

Following the incident, Leonard was hospitalised for his injuries and subsequently taken into custody. As the community mourns the loss of the young girl and Felicia Leonard, the Sumter School District released a statement honouring Ashly as a bright and joyful student. The school community has been left devastated by her untimely passing, extending their deepest sympathies to her family and loved ones during this difficult time.

Sheriff Anthony Dennis assured the public that investigators are diligently working to unravel the details of this harrowing tragedy. The Sumter County Sheriff’s Office pledged to provide further updates on the case as more information becomes available. The community is reeling from the shock of such a senseless act of violence that has claimed the lives of two innocent individuals.

As the investigation continues, residents are grappling with the aftermath of this devastating incident that has shattered the peace and tranquillity of their neighbourhood. The heartbreaking loss of Ashly and Felicia Leonard serves as a stark reminder of the fragility of life and the need for vigilance in addressing interpersonal conflicts before they escalate into irreparable tragedies.