NEWBERRY COUNTY, S.C. — Authorities in Newberry County have charged a man with murder following a deadly shooting that unfolded Friday night on Interstate 26 near Exit 82. Sheriff Lee Foster confirmed that 45-year-old Wilfrido George Luna is in custody and facing multiple charges stemming from the fatal incident.
According to the Newberry County Sheriff’s Office, deputies responded to reports of gunfire along I-26 shortly before midnight. When law enforcement arrived, they discovered a vehicle stopped on the shoulder with a driver suffering from gunshot wounds. Despite emergency aid and rapid response from first responders, the victim was pronounced dead at the scene.
Investigators quickly launched a search for the suspect, who witnesses reported had fled the area. Sheriff Foster said deputies, working in coordination with the South Carolina Highway Patrol and neighboring agencies, located Luna a short time later. He was taken into custody without further incident.
“Interstate 26 is one of the busiest corridors in South Carolina, and an act of violence of this magnitude is deeply concerning,” Sheriff Foster said. “We are thankful for the swift actions of our deputies and partner agencies that led to a quick arrest.”
Officials have not yet released the name of the victim, pending notification of next of kin. Authorities have also not disclosed a motive, but Sheriff Foster said preliminary evidence suggests the shooting was not random.
Luna has been charged with murder and possession of a weapon during a violent crime. He is currently being held at the Newberry County Detention Center awaiting a bond hearing.
The South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) is assisting with the investigation, and deputies are asking anyone who may have witnessed the shooting or the events leading up to it to contact the Sheriff’s Office.
“This is still an active and ongoing investigation,” Sheriff Foster noted. “We want to assure the public that there is no further threat to motorists on Interstate 26.”
The deadly shooting marks one of the most serious violent incidents on the interstate in recent months, sending shockwaves through the Newberry County community.