NORTH AUGUSTA, S.C. — The North Augusta community is reeling in heartbreak following a tragic shooting at a local Sprint gas station that claimed the lives of 76-year-old Jewel Harden of Hephzibah, Georgia, and 33-year-old Thomas B. Lilly Jr. of Williston, South Carolina. The senseless act of violence unfolded on Sunday, October 26, 2025, leaving behind grief, unanswered questions, and a community struggling to make sense of the loss.
According to the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED), the deadly shooting occurred at the gas station on Edgefield Road, where officers were dispatched after reports of gunfire. Witnesses described a horrifying scene — the sound of shots echoing through the air as terrified customers took cover behind vehicles and gas pumps.
When officers arrived, they encountered a suspect armed with an AR-style pistol. Officials say a North Augusta Department of Public Safety officer fired at the suspect after he raised his weapon toward police. Both Harden and Lilly were found at the scene suffering from fatal gunshot wounds. They were pronounced deceased shortly after.
The suspect, who has not yet been identified, was shot by police and taken to a nearby hospital, where he remains under medical care. Authorities have not released information about his condition or a possible motive for the attack.
Remembering Jewel Harden
At 76 years old, Jewel Harden was known for her gentle spirit, her kindness, and the warmth she brought to everyone she met. A longtime resident of Hephzibah, she was deeply loved by her neighbors and family. Those who knew her best remember her as a woman of faith who lived her life with compassion and grace.
“She was always smiling, always checking in on others,” said one neighbor. “She had a giving heart and made everyone feel like family.”
Friends and family say Jewel loved the simple joys of life — tending to her garden, cooking meals for her loved ones, and spending quiet evenings with those she cherished most. Her death has left an irreplaceable emptiness in the hearts of all who knew her.
“She was the kind of person who made the world softer,” one family member shared. “Losing her like this is something we’ll never understand.”
Honoring the Life of Thomas B. Lilly Jr.
Thomas Lilly Jr., 33, of Williston, South Carolina, is remembered as a hardworking, kindhearted man whose laughter could fill a room. He was devoted to his family, friends, and his community, and those who loved him say he lived with a big heart and an easy smile.
Thomas was known for his willingness to help anyone in need. Whether it was a friend who needed a hand or a neighbor who needed encouragement, he was always there without hesitation. “He had this energy about him — you couldn’t be sad around him,” said one close friend. “He made everyone feel seen and valued.”
His loss has left his family and friends shattered. They describe him as a loving son, a loyal friend, and a man who worked hard every day to provide for those he cared about. “He was our light,” said a family member. “Now that light feels dimmer, but we’ll hold on to every memory.”
A Community United in Grief
In the aftermath of the tragedy, the North Augusta community has come together to mourn and remember the victims. A growing memorial now stands outside the Sprint gas station on Edgefield Road, where flowers, candles, and heartfelt messages continue to pile up. Residents from both South Carolina and Georgia have stopped by to pay their respects, many leaving notes of love for two lives lost far too soon.
Law enforcement officials have also expressed their condolences to the families, recognizing the pain caused by the incident. “Our hearts go out to the families and loved ones of those who lost their lives in this senseless act of violence,” the North Augusta Department of Public Safety said in a statement.
SLED is leading the investigation into the shooting, including the officer’s response, as part of standard procedure in any officer-involved incident. The department has confirmed that the responding officer has been placed on administrative leave pending the outcome of the investigation.
Gone But Never Forgotten
For both families, the pain is immeasurable. Two beautiful lives — each filled with love, kindness, and purpose — were taken far too soon. But even in grief, their families find comfort in knowing that Jewel and Thomas will forever be remembered for the love they gave and the lives they touched.
“They were both such good people,” one friend said softly at the memorial. “It’s hard to understand why things like this happen, but we’ll keep their memory alive. That’s what they deserve.”
As the community mourns, they hold tight to faith, unity, and the belief that love is stronger than tragedy.
Rest in eternal peace, Jewel Harden and Thomas B. Lilly Jr.
Your light, love, and memory will live on in every heart you touched.