The community of Gray Court, South Carolina is mourning the tragic loss of 15-year-old Leo Scott Epting, who was fatally shot early Saturday morning, March 7, 2026. Authorities described the incident as a senseless act of violence that has left family, friends, and neighbors shocked and heartbroken.
According to the Laurens County Sheriff’s Office, deputies responded around 5:30 a.m. to the area of Tanglewood Way in Gray Court after receiving reports of a gunshot victim. When officers arrived, they discovered Epting lying in the roadway suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. Despite immediate emergency efforts, the teen was pronounced dead at the scene.
The Laurens County Coroner’s Office confirmed the identity of the victim as Leo Scott Epting. Investigators were assisted at the scene by the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division Child Fatality Task Force fatal shooting.
Authorities have arrested 18-year-old Ryan Ingersoll of Charlotte, North Carolina in connection with the shooting. Ingersoll has been charged with multiple offenses, including murder, armed robbery, criminal conspiracy, and possession of a weapon during a violent crime. In addition, a juvenile suspect located in North Carolina has been detained and is awaiting extradition to South Carolina.
Laurens County Sheriff Don Reynolds described the incident as a tragic and unnecessary loss of a young life. He also praised the work of all law enforcement agencies involved, including the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department Homicide Unit and the Violent Crime Apprehension Team, for their assistance in the investigation. Officials emphasized the importance of community cooperation as detectives continue gathering information.
The investigation into the shooting remains ongoing, and authorities have stated that no further details will be released at this time due to the sensitive nature of the case. Residents in Gray Court continue to mourn the death of Leo Scott Epting while law enforcement works to ensure justice is served. The case serves as a somber reminder of the impact of violent crime on families and communities.
