ANDERSON, SC – In the pre-dawn darkness on a quiet Anderson street, an ordinary apartment complex became the scene of a deadly confrontation that has left one man dead and another behind bars, authorities said.
Thomas J. Anderson, 35, was arrested this week and stands charged with murder and possession of a weapon during a violent crime after, investigators allege, he fatally shot Oscar David Barrios Mazariegos, 29, outside the apartment of Anderson’s estranged wife.
According to law enforcement officials, the events unfolded around 4 a.m. on Palmetto Lane, nestled in the heart of this small Upstate city. Anderson reportedly arrived unannounced at his wife’s residence, only to find Barrios Mazariegos inside with her.
At some point during the early morning encounter, authorities say Barrios Mazariegos attempted to escape into the night. However, he was pursued by Anderson, who followed him from the apartment toward the parking area.
The confrontation quickly escalated, law enforcement reports indicate, and moments later, multiple gunshots shattered the stillness. Barrios Mazariegos was found a short time later, slumped in his vehicle, suffering from several gunshot wounds. Paramedics pronounced him dead at the scene. The county coroner later confirmed the manner of death as homicide.
Responding to the sound of shots fired, sheriff’s deputies arrived at the complex just after 4:20 a.m., launching an immediate investigation. Officials have characterized the shooting as a domestic incident, given the connections between those involved.
By late morning, authorities had tracked down and apprehended Anderson. He was taken into custody without incident and transported to the Anderson County Detention Center, where he remains.
Court records show Anderson made his initial appearance before a judge on Friday, where he was denied bond. He will remain in detention as the investigation continues and the case proceeds through the legal system.
Residents of the area, a typically uneventful neighborhood, expressed shock at the violence that unfolded in their midst. Law enforcement has emphasized there is no ongoing threat to the community.
Detectives continue to interview witnesses and gather evidence as they piece together the events that led to the deadly encounter. An autopsy has been scheduled to further clarify the circumstances surrounding Barrios Mazariegos’ death.
Authorities have not released information about what led Anderson to the apartment or the relationship between his estranged wife and the victim, as their investigation is ongoing.