South Carolina Man Charged With Murder After Shooting Wife’s Companion Inside Victim’s Own Car, Deputies Say

ANDERSON, SOUTH CAROLINA — A South Carolina man is being held without bond after deputies say he tracked down and fatally shot a man he found with his estranged wife, killing the victim inside his own vehicle as he attempted to flee the scene.

According to the Anderson County Sheriff’s Office, Thomas J. Anderson, 35, has been charged with murder and possession of a weapon during a violent crime in the shooting death of Oscar David Barrios Mazariegos, 29.

Early-Morning Confrontation at Apartment Complex

The shooting occurred during the early morning hours at an apartment complex on Palmetto Lane in Anderson, roughly 30 miles southwest of Greenville.

Deputies say Anderson arrived at his estranged wife’s apartment around 4 a.m. and found Mazariegos inside with her. When the husband appeared, Mazariegos attempted to leave the situation, law enforcement said.

Investigators believe Anderson followed the victim as he tried to escape.

Victim Shot While Inside His Own Vehicle

According to the sheriff’s office, Mazariegos was unable to leave the area and was later found shot to death inside his own car.

The Anderson County Coroner’s Office confirmed that the victim had been shot multiple times and was pronounced dead at the scene.

Deputies were dispatched to the complex around 4:20 a.m. after receiving reports of gunfire. Authorities initially described the incident as domestic-related, given the relationship between the suspect and the woman involved.

Suspect Arrested Hours Later, Denied Bond

Thomas Anderson was taken into custody later that morning, with deputies confirming his arrest by 11 a.m.

He appeared before a judge on Friday, where bond was denied, according to courtroom reporting. Anderson remains detained at the Anderson County Detention Center as the case proceeds.

Investigation Ongoing

Authorities have not released additional details about what occurred inside the apartment prior to the shooting or whether any prior domestic incidents had been reported involving the couple.

Deputies say the investigation remains active as they continue gathering evidence and witness statements.

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