Newberry County, August 20, 2025
News Summary
A shooting incident in Newberry County resulted in the arrest of Wilfrido George Luna, who has been charged with the murder of Rose Helen Kewlani. The shooting occurred on Interstate 26 West, where Kewlani was shot while in her vehicle. Luna fled the scene but was apprehended after a standoff. Local schools implemented lockdowns as a safety measure, but no injuries have been reported other than the victim’s. The investigation is ongoing, with authorities ensuring the community’s safety.
Newberry County Incident Ends in Arrest Following Fatal Shooting
A series of violent events unfolded in Newberry County as authorities arrested Wilfrido George Luna, a 45-year-old resident of Columbia, and charged him with murder following the fatal shooting of Rose Helen Kewlani, a 52-year-old woman from West Columbia. The tragic incident took place on Monday, October 23, on Interstate 26 West at mile marker 82, near the SC-773/Prosperity exit.
Kewlani was identified as the victim after she was shot while inside her vehicle. Luna allegedly fired the weapon, striking Kewlani before fleeing across both lanes of the interstate. The suspect quickly attempted to carjack a nearby tractor-trailer truck but continued to evade authorities, running towards the nearby Mid-Carolina Country Club where he was eventually apprehended after a brief standoff.
The Newberry County Sheriff’s Office, along with the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) and other law agencies, are conducting an active investigation into the incident. An autopsy for Kewlani has been requested and is set to take place this week, while no other injuries have been reported.
Safety Measures Implemented Amid Incident
In response to the chaotic situation, local schools reacted promptly; Mid-Carolina High School and Mid-Carolina Middle School were placed on lockdown as a precaution. Additionally, Little Mountain, Pomaria-Garmany, and Prosperity-Rikard elementary schools also entered a “Secure Mode.” The lockdowns lasted less than 30 minutes, with school officials later confirming that all students and staff remained safe during the incident.
Investigation and Community Impact
As the investigation continues, no motive for the shooting has been disclosed. Sheriff Lee Foster stated that this was an isolated incident, assuring the community that there is no ongoing threat to public safety. Authorities have not provided further details regarding the relationship between Luna and Kewlani or any potential motives behind the shooting.
This tragic event marks another concerning incident in the area, prompting discussions regarding safety on highways and in communities. The law enforcement agencies involved remain committed to uncovering further details as they work through their investigation.
Summary of Key Details
- Victim: Rose Helen Kewlani, 52, West Columbia
- Suspect: Wilfrido George Luna, 45, Columbia
- Location: Interstate 26 West, mile marker 82
- Incident: Fatal shooting occurred while Kewlani was inside her vehicle
- Arrest: Luna apprehended at Mid-Carolina Country Club
- School Response: Lockdowns at various local schools; no injuries reported
- Investigation: Ongoing by multiple law enforcement agencies
- Public Safety: Sheriff confirms no ongoing threat
FAQ
What happened on Interstate 26 in Newberry County?
A fatal shooting occurred where Rose Helen Kewlani was killed while sitting in her vehicle. Wilfrido George Luna has been charged with her murder.
Where was the incident located?
The shooting took place on Interstate 26 West at mile marker 82, near SC-773/Prosperity exit.
What actions did law enforcement take following the event?
Law enforcement agencies, including the Newberry County Sheriff’s Office and SLED, are investigating the incident and apprehended Luna at the Mid-Carolina Country Club.
Were there any injuries reported other than the victim?
No other injuries have been reported in connection with the shooting incident.
What precautions were taken for local schools during the incident?
Several schools were placed on lockdown or “Secure Mode” for safety but were lifted within 30 minutes once deemed safe.
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Additional Resources
- WIS TV: Newberry County Sheriff IDs Man Charged in Deadly I-26 Shooting
- Wikipedia: Interstate 26
- WLTX: Shooting on Interstate 26 in Newberry County
- Google Search: Newberry County shooting
- The State: Local Crime News
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Shooting Incidents
- WBTV: Person Shot and Killed on I-26
- Google News: Newberry County shooting
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