A 10-year-old girl was shot and killed late Wednesday night while in her bed inside her Beech Island home, prompting an intense investigation by local and state authorities.
Deputies with the Aiken County Sheriff’s Office were called to the 100 block of Dorsett Kenzie Road around 11:49 p.m. for reports of gunfire. Inside the home, they found Lavinia Lowe with a gunshot wound to the head. Deputies attempted lifesaving measures until EMS arrived, but she was pronounced dead at the scene at 1:30 a.m., according to Coroner Darryl Ables.
Authorities say it appears the shooting was done from outside the home, striking Lavinia in her bed and killing her.
Investigators from the Sheriff’s Office, the State Law Enforcement Division (SLED), and the Coroner’s Office responded to the scene. An autopsy is scheduled for next week in Newberry.
“Any murder is unacceptable, but the murder of an innocent child is the most depraved act possible and these families, and this community should not have to endure acts like this,” said Sheriff Marty Sawyer. “The Aiken County Sheriff’s Office has all its resources focused on this murder and the murder that occurred over the weekend. I have requested help from other local agencies, state agencies, and federal agencies to assist us with these two cases.”
No arrests have been announced, and investigators have not released information about a suspect or motive. Anyone with information is urged to contact the Aiken County Sheriff’s Office at 803-642-1761.
