In a tragic incident at a Chick-fil-A parking lot on North Main Street in South Carolina, a verbal confrontation between two individuals escalated into a physical altercation, resulting in the death of one man. According to the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division, Anthony DeLustro, 64, was identified as the "primary aggressor" in the confrontation, which ultimately led to the shooting.

Eyewitnesses reported that the confrontation between DeLustro and Michael O'Neal, 39, turned violent, with bystanders trying to separate the two men. The situation took an alarming turn when DeLustro broke free from restraint and allegedly threatened to kill O'Neal if he tried to flee the scene.

As O'Neal attempted to disengage from the physical altercation and retreat to his vehicle, DeLustro, still partially seated in O'Neal's passenger seat, fired a single shot from his handgun. Tragically, the bullet struck O'Neal, resulting in his death at the scene.

DeLustro, a former law enforcement officer, made an emotional plea for leniency during a court appearance on April 10. Professing his innocence, DeLustro highlighted his years of public service and clean record throughout his 35-year law enforcement career. He requested mercy from the court so he could support his wife and daughters during the difficult legal proceedings.

The tragic loss of O'Neal has deeply affected his family, who has since launched a GoFundMe page to raise funds. The page, which mentions that O'Neal was the son of a police officer, has already garnered more than $26,000 in donations.

Authorities are continuing their investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident. The court will duly consider DeLustro's plea for leniency while reviewing the evidence and testimonies. As the case unfolds, the community mourns the loss of a life and awaits justice to be served in this heartbreaking incident.