LAURENS COUNTY, SC – The suspect involved in a fatal shooting incident outside the Laurens County Family Courthouse has been denied bail. As reported by the Laurens County Sheriff’s Office, 32-year-old Stephen White is accused of shooting 34-year-old Erin Thomas.
The incident occurred around 3:15 p.m. on Monday as both individuals were departing from the courthouse. Court records showed that Thomas was involved in a child custody and domestic relations case, with White being a defendant in the same case.
Thomas was immediately transported to a hospital following the shooting but subsequently died from his injuries. Meanwhile, White was arrested instantly after the incident occurred.
“This really was a heinous crime and a blatant disregard for human life,” stated the Laurens County victims advocate. He emphasized the stark violence of the incident and requested the denial of White’s bond. Moreover, the advocate called for no contact between White and the victims’ third parties, including through social media.
Thomas’ family was present in the room as the judge delivered the verdict. As per the judge, White is scheduled to appear in the general sessions court on October 25. He was denied bail on both the murder and weapons charges. The attorneys in the case between White and Thomas have not issued a statement regarding the incident.