SUMTER, SC – An 80-year-old man is facing multiple charges after allegedly entering a neighbor’s home and fatally shooting an 11-year-old girl and his own wife in a violent outburst that has left a community reeling.
Reuben Arthur Leonard has been charged with murder following the tragic incident on April 16, which took place in Sumter, located approximately 45 miles from Columbia. Sumter County authorities responded to the late-night call to find a scene of chaos after Leonard reportedly entered his neighbor’s residence and began shooting.
The catalyst for Leonard’s alleged actions appears to be long-simmering tensions with neighbors over target shooting in their yard. Sumter County Sheriff’s Chief Deputy Hampton Gardner revealed that Leonard had filed numerous police complaints about these activities, which were deemed lawful.
Describing the attack as a “home invasion,” Gardner recounted Leonard arriving at the house with an assault rifle and another weapon. During the incident, Ashly McFarland, 11, was fatally shot. Her father, also in the house, was hit while attempting to overpower Leonard, preventing further tragedy. Family members managed to subdue Leonard until police arrived.
“This unprovoked and senseless act could have been even worse,” stated Gardner, noting that Leonard had intended to harm all present in the home, where up to 11 people were reportedly gathered.
In a chilling development, Leonard also confessed to shooting his 76-year-old wife, Felicia Leonard, whose body was discovered in their garage with a fatal gunshot wound, according to law enforcement.
Gardner has expressed shock over the incident, dismissing any claims that Leonard was suffering from mental illness, and highlighted the lack of complaints from other neighbors regarding the target practice.
Previously charged with breach of peace related to his ongoing grievances, the situation escalated to violence, leading to Leonard now facing a raft of severe charges, including two counts of murder and multiple counts of attempted murder. His initial court appearance resulted in a no-bond ruling, with further hearings scheduled.
As investigators continue to piece together the events leading to this tragedy, Sheriff Anthony Dennis emphasized the gravity of the situation, noting the major impact on the community. There are no clear answers yet regarding Leonard’s specific motive for the shootings.
Leonard remains in custody at Sumter-Lee Regional Detention Center as the case proceeds through the legal system. The outcome of Leonard’s upcoming court dates is keenly awaited by a community still confronting the tragic losses it has suffered.