Remembering 10-Year-Old Lavinia Lowe, Tragically Killed in Beech Island Shooting
BEECH ISLAND, S.C. — A quiet community is reeling after a senseless act of violence claimed the life of a 10-year-old girl late Wednesday night. Lavinia Lowe, described by loved ones as a bright and spirited child, was fatally shot inside her home on Dorsett Kenzie Road in Beech Island, shattering the peace of a neighborhood that now mourns the loss of an innocent life.
Deputies from the Aiken County Sheriff’s Office were dispatched to the 100 block of Dorsett Kenzie Road at 11:49 p.m., responding to reports of gunfire. Upon arrival, they found Lavinia with a gunshot wound to the head. Officers immediately began administering life-saving measures until EMS arrived, but tragically, Lavinia was pronounced dead at the scene at 1:30 a.m., according to Aiken County Coroner Darryl Ables.
The child’s death has prompted an intense investigation involving the Sheriff’s Office, the State Law Enforcement Division (SLED), and the Coroner’s Office. An autopsy has been scheduled for early next week in Newberry, S.C., to gather more insight into the exact circumstances surrounding the fatal shooting.
As of now, no arrests have been made, and officials have not released any information about potential suspects or a possible motive. The lack of answers has deepened the grief and frustration of family members and residents across Beech Island and beyond, who are calling for swift justice.
“Any murder is unacceptable,” said Sheriff Marty Sawyer, “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.”
Sheriff Sawyer stated that all resources are being mobilized to solve Lavinia’s case, as well as another recent murder in the area. The Sheriff’s Office has requested additional support from other local, state, and federal agencies to assist in the ongoing investigations, vowing that those responsible will be found.
Who Was Lavinia Lowe?
To those who knew her, Lavinia Lowe was more than a name in a headline. She was a daughter, a granddaughter, a student, and a friend. Just 10 years old, Lavinia was said to be full of curiosity and kindness, with a contagious laugh and an artistic spirit. A neighbor who asked to remain anonymous described her as “a sweet little girl who always smiled and waved at everyone.”
“She had a light in her,” said a family friend. “She loved drawing, loved helping around the house, and she talked about wanting to be a veterinarian someday.”
Now, that future has been stolen—abruptly and violently.
A Community in Mourning, a Plea for Help
The tragic killing has cast a somber shadow over Beech Island, a quiet community near the Georgia border that rarely sees such brutality. Residents have begun leaving stuffed animals, flowers, and candles near Lavinia’s home in tribute to her life, while local churches and organizations are planning vigils and support gatherings in the coming days.
Local leaders have echoed the Sheriff’s call for justice and urged anyone with information to come forward.
“This family deserves answers. This child deserves justice,” said Pastor Rachel Greene of a nearby church. “Someone out there knows something, and now is the time to speak.”
Law enforcement officials are appealing directly to the public, emphasizing that even the smallest detail could be vital in piecing together what happened.
Anyone with information is encouraged to call the Aiken County Sheriff’s Office at 803-642-1761 or CrimeStoppers at 1-888-CRIME-SC. Tips can remain anonymous.
RIPAngel | A Life Cut Tragically Short
As news of Lavinia’s death spreads, social media has filled with tributes using the hashtags #RIPLavinia and #RIPAngel, with community members expressing their heartbreak, outrage, and support for the grieving family.
This is not just a law enforcement case—it is a community tragedy, one that speaks to the devastating consequences of gun violence and the urgent need for safety in the places our children should feel most secure: their homes.
May Lavinia Lowe be remembered not for how she died, but for the joy and light she brought in her brief time on this earth. May her memory fuel justice, healing, and the resolve to protect every child from suffering such a cruel fate.
If you know anything, say something. Lavinia’s life matters.
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