Sumter, South Carolina – A tragic shooting incident has left a South Carolina community in shock after an 80-year-old man allegedly opened fire at his neighbors’ home, killing his wife and an 11-year-old girl, and injuring others in what police described as a planned mass killing attempt.
Reuben Arthur Leonard was charged with two counts of murder and seven counts of attempted murder after he reportedly stormed into a nearby residence on Floyd Drive in Sumter with an assault rifle, intending to “kill everybody,” according to the Sumter County Sheriff’s Office.
The Incident: What Happened on April 16?
The shooting occurred around 10:32 p.m. on April 16, when officers responded to reports of gunfire in a neighborhood in Sumter, approximately 45 miles east of Columbia.
Leonard allegedly entered his neighbors’ home in a “home invasion style” and began firing multiple rounds. Among those shot was 11-year-old Ashly McFarland, who died on the spot from her injuries.
Leonard also admitted to shooting and killing his 76-year-old wife, Felicia Leonard, whose body was later found in their garage.
Motive: Target Practice Dispute Led to Deadly Attack
According to Chief Deputy Hampton Gardner, Leonard had frequently complained about his neighbors practicing target shooting in their backyard. Investigations revealed that the neighbors were not breaking any laws and were well within their property limits.
Gardner stated:
“This was unprovoked, senseless, and something like this should never occur.”
Just two days before the shooting, Leonard had been charged with breach of peace for his earlier complaints and confrontations related to the target practice.
A Heroic Attempt to Stop the Shooter
During the shooting, Ashly’s father was also shot while reportedly trying to stop the attacker, according to an online fundraiser created by the family. Other family members at the scene managed to tackle and restrain Leonard until law enforcement arrived.
At the time of the shooting, 10 to 11 people were present in the house, but thanks to their quick action, further tragedy was prevented.
Arrest, Charges, and Upcoming Hearing
Leonard was treated at a hospital for minor injuries sustained while being subdued and was then booked into the Sumter-Lee Regional Detention Center. He has been formally charged with:
- Two counts of murder
- Seven counts of attempted murder
He appeared in court on April 18, where a judge ordered him to be held without bond. Leonard is next scheduled to appear in court on June 6, 2025.
No Known Mental Illness, Say Authorities
During the press conference, authorities clarified that Leonard is not believed to be suffering from dementia or any other mental illness. As of now, the motive for killing his wife remains unknown.
Community and Law Enforcement Respond
Sheriff Anthony Dennis described the case as a “horrific incident”, and promised a thorough investigation.
The local community has come together to support Ashly’s grieving family, with emotional tributes remembering her as a “smart and happy little girl” whose life was taken far too soon.