LANCASTER, S.C. – A horrifying act of violence unfolded in Lancaster, South Carolina, as a man shot a 6-year-old boy and his mother before confessing to the crime in a chilling 911 call. The child tragically died, while his mother remains hospitalized, authorities say.
According to the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED), 24-year-old Jacob Sobieraj called 911 and admitted to shooting the pair. Shortly after, he was killed in a shootout with police.
Neighbor Gloria Quattlebaum, who lives across the street, described the terrifying gunfire exchange.
“I just thought war had broken loose,” she said. “It was just constant shooting, and it wasn’t stopping. It was very scary.”
Quattlebaum had befriended the mother and her son after they moved into their Mosteller Drive home last year. She revealed that Sobieraj had been staying in the victims’ garage but said she never expected such a tragedy to unfold.
“I’m in shock. It’s unbelievable,” she added, devastated by the loss.
She recalled her bond with the little boy, who was full of life and laughter. They had planned to spend the upcoming weekend learning to ride a bike together.
“He was just a happy little fellow, always smiling. It’s hard to believe he’s gone.”
Authorities have not yet determined a motive for the shooting. SLED continues to investigate the case.
This heartbreaking incident has left the Lancaster community reeling, mourning the loss of an innocent child and hoping for justice.
