Columbia Man Faces Charges Over His Mother’s Death

Tragic Death in Lexington Shocks Community

In the city of Lexington, South Carolina, authorities have reported a horrifying case of matricide. The Lexington County Sheriff’s Department issued a press release reporting that Terry Lee Self Jr., a 37-year-old Columbia man, is currently facing a charge of murder for allegedly killing his mother last December.

An arrest warrant has been issued, revealing the grim details of the case. Authorities discovered the body of Regina Arroyo, Self’s mother, on December 3, hidden away in the murky waters of the Edisto River. Her body was found by an unwitting canoer.

The Investigation: Unraveling the Mystery

Sheriff Jay Koon stated that detectives had traced back the last known movements of Arroyo to her son’s house. The subsequent investigation revealed that the mother-son duo had a quarrel there and then left the premises together.

Lexington County Coroner Margaret Fisher affirmed the identity of the victim. “The evidence in this case indicates that Self used a ligature to strangle Ms. Arroyo,” Koon divulged, adding to the string of shocking details. Following the hideous act, Self allegedly discarded his mother’s body in the river.

A Long and Exhaustive Investigation

The case has been under active investigation for the past seven months. After relentless efforts, law enforcement appears to have zeroed in on Self as the primary suspect in Arroyo’s death.

“Detectives have been working tirelessly to solve this case. We hope to provide Arroyo’s family and loved ones some closure,” stated Koon.

Legal Proceedings Against the Accused

At present, Self is held in Richland County at the Alvin S. Glenn Detention Center on an unrelated charge. Lexington County investigators slapped the murder charge on Self this past Monday, after which he was brought before a magistrate. His bond application was subsequently denied.

Public Reaction and Final Thoughts

News of this dreadful crime has left people stunned and heartbroken, especially considering the nature of the victim-perpetrator relationship. Many are extending thoughts and prayers to the family and loved ones of Arroyo as they grapple with this devastating experience.

As our communities grapple with this news, we implore everyone to remember the importance of promoting peace, understanding, and unity, even in the harshest of circumstances.

Crime Prevention

As we move forward, it is crucial to consider preventative measures for such heinous crimes, including advocating for mental health wellness, family mediation, and conflict resolution resources.