What Led to the Death of 13-Year-Old Daryl Martinez Lowry?

 A heartbreaking investigation in McCormick County, South Carolina, has revealed the tragic death of 13-year-old Daryl Martinez Lowry, whose life ended during an alleged attack at a foster home. The young teenager’s death has shocked the community as authorities examine what happened at the property of McCormick County Council Chairman Bernie Hamby, where Daryl had recently been staying while awaiting another placement.

According to the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division, two foster teenagers have been charged in connection with Daryl’s death after investigators say an altercation occurred during the early morning hours of July 20. Authorities allege the confrontation happened at a private boat dock on Hamby’s property, where the victim and the two suspects were living as foster children. The investigation remains active as officials continue gathering evidence and reviewing the circumstances surrounding the fatal incident.

SLED announced that 17-year-old Landen Austin Moore has been arrested and charged with murder in connection with the killing. A 16-year-old foster child was also taken into custody and charged through South Carolina’s juvenile justice system. Because the second suspect is a minor, authorities have not released that person’s identity. Investigators said Moore is described as approximately 6 feet 2 inches tall and weighing about 180 pounds.

Newly released arrest warrants provide details about the allegations against the teenagers. Investigators say an argument at the boat dock escalated, resulting in Daryl suffering knife wounds. Authorities further allege that after the stabbing, the two suspects held the 13-year-old underwater, causing his death by drowning. Officials have not released information about what may have led to the confrontation or whether investigators have identified a possible motive.

The alleged attack happened while Bernie Hamby was asleep inside the residence, according to authorities. Investigators have not indicated that Hamby was involved or aware of the incident as it occurred. The case has raised questions throughout the community because the deadly confrontation happened at a home where foster children were placed together, though officials have not released additional details about the living arrangements or supervision at the residence.

Daryl had reportedly been placed in Hamby’s home as a temporary foster child shortly before his death. Authorities said both Moore and the 16-year-old suspect were also foster children living at the same location when the alleged attack occurred. Officials have not said how long the three teenagers had lived together or whether any previous conflicts had been reported before the tragedy.

The investigation comes after another difficult chapter in Daryl’s young life. Authorities noted that just over a month before his death, he had been reported missing in Chester County, South Carolina. He was later found safely and returned home. Investigators have not said whether that missing-person case was connected in any way to his placement in foster care or the events that led to his death.

According to information shared about Daryl’s life, he was born on November 18, 2012, in Charlotte, North Carolina, and was a native of Chester, South Carolina. His death has left his parents, relatives, and loved ones facing an unimaginable loss. Family members are now mourning a child whose life ended far too soon and remembering the years, moments, and memories they shared with him.

As SLED continues investigating, authorities have not announced whether additional charges could be filed or released further details about the case. The community continues seeking answers while remembering Daryl Martinez Lowry and the life he should have had ahead of him. His death has brought grief to many and renewed attention to the importance of protecting vulnerable children placed in foster care.