Tragic Death of Foster Child in South Carolina Raises Concerns

A tragic incident unfolded in South Carolina involving a 13-year-old boy, Daryl Martinez Lowry, who died after being attacked by two other teens. The attack occurred at the home of Bernie Hamby, McCormick County Council Chairman, where Lowry was temporarily placed awaiting a new foster assignment.

Details of the Incident

Reports indicate that the suspects, also foster children there, included 17-year-old Landen Austin Moore. Moore and another 16-year-old male allegedly engaged in a physical altercation with Lowry on July 20, inflicting knife wounds before holding him underwater, leading to his death.

The confrontation took place at a private boat dock on Beauregard Drive in Modoc, South Carolina. An arrest warrant, supported by witness statements and evidence, claims the attack was intentional.

Suspects in Custody

Moore has been charged with murder and taken to McCormick County Detention Center. The unnamed 16-year-old was sent to the South Carolina Department of Juvenile Justice. It remains unclear if charges will be filed against the 16-year-old.

The South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) is leading the investigation, which remains ongoing. The state Attorney General’s Office will prosecute the case.

Community Reaction

At the time of the attack, Hamby was reportedly asleep, and there is no evidence suggesting he witnessed or was involved in the crime. Hamby has long supported foster care initiatives in the community.

After the tragedy, McCormick County Sheriff Chad Cox expressed condolences and praised the collaborative efforts of various agencies involved in the investigation. He emphasized the need for vigilance in maintaining community safety.

Lowry’s family recalled him as a loving and charismatic child. His aunt shared her grief online, pledging to seek justice for him.

Background

A month prior to his death, Lowry was the subject of a missing child search in his hometown, Chester, South Carolina. He was eventually found safe, and there’s no indication that his earlier disappearance relates to his death.

A GoFundMe page set up by Lowry’s family highlights his vibrant personality and the love he had for family and friends.

SLED has not concluded its investigation as the community grapples with this senseless loss, stressing the resilience needed to create a secure environment.