In the early morning hours of Saturday, March 7, 2026, the quiet community of Gray Court, South Carolina, was shattered by a tragic act of violence that claimed the life of 15-year-old Leo Scott Epting. A freshman at Laurens District High School, Leo was found shot in the middle of Tanglewood Way at approximately 5:30 a.m. by deputies from the Laurens County Sheriff's Office who were responding to reports of a gunshot victim.
Despite the efforts of first responders, the young man succumbed to his injuries at the scene.
Leo was born in Laurens, SC, on November 25, 2010, to his parents Jonathan Epting and Petra Cruz Constancio. Remembered as an adventurous and spirited teenager, he had a passion for the outdoors, enjoying activities like hunting, fishing, and riding dirt bikes. He was also a dedicated martial artist, having achieved the rank of a first-degree black belt. His family described him as a loving son, brother, and grandson who had a great affection for all animals. The unexpected loss left his family and the local community in profound grief. In the wake of the tragedy, Laurens County School District 55 made mental health counselors available to support students and staff.
The investigation into Leo's death quickly progressed, leading to the identification of two suspects. Ryan Ingersoll, an 18-year-old from Charlotte, North Carolina, was arrested and is facing a multitude of charges, including murder, armed robbery, criminal conspiracy, and possession of a weapon during a violent crime. During his initial court appearance in Laurens County, Ingersoll was denied bond. A second, unnamed juvenile suspect was also taken into custody in North Carolina and is awaiting extradition to South Carolina to face charges. The Laurens County Sheriff's Office has been working in conjunction with the SLED Child Fatality Task Force, the Laurens County Coroner's Office, the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department Homicide Unit, and the Violent Crime Apprehension Team on this case. While the motive for the shooting has not been publicly released, the charges suggest a robbery may have been involved. As the legal process moves forward, a community continues to mourn the senseless loss of a young life.
