BEECH ISLAND, S.C. — A community is reeling and a family shattered after a 10-year-old Lavinia Lowe was shot and killed late Wednesday night inside her home in Beech Island. The tragedy has sparked an urgent investigation involving local, state, and federal authorities as they search for answers in the heartbreaking case.
Deputies with the Aiken County Sheriff’s Office responded to reports of gunfire around 11:49 p.m. at a residence in the 100 block of Dorsett Kenzie Road. When they arrived, they discovered Lavinia Lowe suffering from a gunshot wound to the head. Deputies administered CPR and attempted lifesaving measures until EMS arrived, but despite their efforts, the young girl was pronounced dead at the scene at 1:30 a.m., according to Coroner Darryl Ables.
The Aiken County Sheriff’s Office, the State Law Enforcement Division (SLED), and the Coroner’s Office have launched a full-scale investigation into the circumstances surrounding the fatal shooting. An autopsy has been scheduled for next week in Newberry to further assist in determining the exact cause and manner of death.
Sheriff Marty Sawyer expressed both grief and determination in a statement to the public:
“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 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.”
As of now, no arrests have been made, and investigators have not released any information regarding potential suspects or a possible motive. Authorities are urging anyone who may have seen or heard anything suspicious, or who has information about the shooting, to come forward.
Residents of Beech Island are grieving the loss of a child whose life was stolen before it had truly begun. Lavinia Lowe was just 10 years old — a child full of promise, warmth, and innocence. Her sudden, violent death has left her family devastated and a tight-knit community in mourning.
Anyone with information is urged to contact the Aiken County Sheriff’s Office at 803-642-1761. Anonymous tips can also be submitted through Crime Stoppers.
As investigators press forward, the community clings to the hope that justice will be served — for Lavinia, for her family, and for the safety of all the children who deserve to grow up free from fear.
