Man charged with murder after assault victim dies, say deputies

RICHLAND COUNTY, S.C. (WOLO)– Richland County deputies say a man has been charged with murder after his initial charge was assault.

Richland County detectives say deputies responded to a hospital on Tuesday, March 5 around 4 p.m. in relation to an assault.

When deputies arrived to the scene, they talked to EMS who took the victim to the hospital about the victim suffering severe injuries.

RCSD says hospital staff advised them the victim would not recover from the injuries.

Nathan McLaughlin who was the victim’s boyfriend was arrested in connection with the assault and was initially charged and taken to the Alvin S. Glenn Detention Center (ASGDC) for attempted murder.

Those charges got changed to murder after investigators were made aware that the victim passed away. He is still detained at the ASGDC.

The victim was identified as Theresa Stenger, 43, of Columbia.

RCSD encourages anyone in an abusive relationship to reach out for help at RCSD Victim Services Unit at 803-576-3113 or Sister Care at 803-765-9428.