South Carolina Man Charged After Allegedly Killing Wife and 11-Year-Old in Target Practice Dispute

An older man was charged with murder after a backyard dispute led to the tragic deaths of his neighbor's child and wife.

Sumter, South Carolina – A tragic and senseless act of violence rocked a quiet South Carolina neighborhood after an 80-year-old man allegedly stormed into his neighbor’s home with an assault rifle and opened fire, killing an 11-year-old girl and his mother.

Authorities say Reuben Arthur Leonard is facing two counts of murder and seven counts of attempted murder following the deadly incident that unfolded on the night of April 16. According to the Sumter County Sheriff’s Office, Leonard was reportedly angry over his neighbors’ legal target practice in their yard. He had complained to law enforcement multiple times in the weeks leading up to the shooting.

Just two days after his last complaint, Leonard allegedly entered the Floyd Drive residence armed with two weapons. Sumter County Chief Deputy Hampton Gardner said the suspect forced his way into the home “home invasion style,” where 10 to 11 people were present. He allegedly began firing, striking, and killing 11-year-old Ashly McFarland. She died instantly.

Ashly’s father was also injured while trying to stop the attack and protect others inside the home. Family members were able to subdue Leonard and hold him until deputies arrived on the scene.

Before police detained him, Leonard allegedly admitted to also shooting his wife, 76-year-old Felicia Leonard. Investigators found her body in the garage of their home, dead from a gunshot wound.

“This is a horrific incident,” said Sheriff Anthony Dennis. “Our investigators are working diligently to uncover all the details. This community is devastated.”

Gardner confirmed that Leonard’s neighbors had been engaging in legal target practice on their property and had not violated local ordinances. He stated that no other complaints from nearby residents had been filed.

Leonard was previously charged with breach of peace on April 14, related to the dispute. Officials said there was no evidence that Leonard had dementia or any other mental illness.

Following the incident, Leonard was taken to the hospital to be treated for minor injuries sustained while being restrained. He was later transferred to the Sumter-Lee Regional Detention Center. He appeared in court on April 18 and was denied bond. His next hearing is scheduled for June 6.

Ashly McFarland, remembered by family and friends as a bright, joyful child, lost her life in an act of violence that authorities say was “unprovoked and senseless.” Her family has launched an online fundraiser to assist with funeral costs and medical expenses for her injured father.