Modoc, South Carolina — A tragic incident at a South Carolina foster home has led to murder charges against two teenagers after authorities alleged they killed a 13-year-old boy who had only recently been placed at the residence.
According to the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED), 17-year-old Landon Austin Moore and an unnamed 16-year-old boy have both been charged with murder following the death of Daryl Martinez Lowry, whose body was discovered Monday in a lake near a residential dock in Modoc.
Investigators say the case unfolded just hours after the victim arrived at the foster home, where he was staying temporarily while awaiting a more permanent placement.
Police Allege Fight Escalated Into Deadly Attack
Authorities said the incident began with a physical altercation involving Lowry, Moore and the 16-year-old suspect.
According to an arrest warrant reviewed by Law&Crime, investigators believe the confrontation escalated dramatically during the early morning hours.
The warrant alleges that Lowry suffered knife wounds during the altercation before the suspects dragged him to a nearby lake.
Investigators further allege the two teens held the 13-year-old underwater until he died. The victim’s body was later recovered from the lake near a residential boat dock.
Victim Had Recently Been Placed in Foster Care
Local reports indicate that Moore and the 16-year-old suspect were already living at the foster home, while Lowry had only recently been placed there as a temporary foster child.
According to reports, the home belongs to McCormick County Council Chairman Bernie Hamby, who reportedly serves as a foster parent.
Officials said Hamby was asleep inside the residence when the incident allegedly occurred during the early morning hours.
Authorities have not accused Hamby of any wrongdoing, and investigators have not indicated that he is considered a suspect in the case.
At this stage, law enforcement has not publicly disclosed a motive for the alleged attack.
Two Teen Suspects Remain in Custody
Following the investigation, SLED charged both teenagers with murder.
Landon Austin Moore, 17, is being held at the McCormick County Detention Center, while the 16-year-old suspect has been placed in the custody of the South Carolina Department of Juvenile Justice.
Officials have not announced a court date for Moore, and additional details about the case have not yet been released.
As investigators continue gathering evidence, authorities are expected to determine whether additional charges or information will emerge in the coming weeks.
The case has drawn attention because of the victim’s recent placement in foster care and the serious allegations surrounding his death. Investigators continue working to establish the full sequence of events leading up to the fatal incident.
What are your thoughts on this tragic case? Do you believe additional safeguards are needed in foster care placements involving multiple youth? Share your thoughts respectfully in the comments below.
