A tragic incident claimed the life of Gregario Julian Lizama Tenorio, a 37-year-old resident of Spartanburg, South Carolina, on January 1, 2026. He was fatally shot in the parking lot of the Spinx convenience store on W.O. Ezell Boulevard shortly after 1 a.m., turning the first hours of the new year into a moment of grief for the Upstate community.
Responding officers arrived to find Gregario suffering from gunshot wounds. Despite immediate efforts by police and first responders to administer aid, he was pronounced dead at the scene at 1:20 a.m. by the Spartanburg County Coroner’s Office. The loss marked a somber beginning to the year for residents of the area.
Investigators revealed that the violence stemmed from a domestic-style dispute inside a silver Nissan sedan parked at the store. Witnesses described a physical altercation between the driver and a rear-seat passenger, escalating quickly amid the late-night atmosphere. Gregario, who had been living out of his vehicle nearby, stepped forward in an attempt to intervene and calm the situation. As he approached the rear of the sedan, gunfire erupted, striking him and causing him to collapse instantly.
The driver of the Nissan fled immediately after the shooting, leaving the scene while Gregario lay mortally wounded. Officers secured the area, interviewed witnesses, and collected forensic evidence, including ballistic materials, to reconstruct the deadly sequence of events. Police emphasized how swiftly the confrontation escalated, underscoring the unpredictable nature of disputes in public spaces.
The Spartanburg Police Department has identified all individuals involved in the vehicle, though no charges have yet been filed. The investigation remains active, with authorities urging the public to provide any information that may assist in bringing clarity and justice.
The Spinx convenience store, typically a bustling 24-hour stop for travelers and locals, became the site of unexpected tragedy. Witnesses initially mistook the gunfire for fireworks in the quiet aftermath of New Year’s Eve, only to realize the severity as chaos unfolded. The rapid law enforcement response highlighted the fragility of safety in familiar community spaces.
His memory endures as a reminder of compassion in the face of adversity, inspiring reflection within the community he called home. Authorities continue their investigation, urging anyone with information to contact the Spartanburg Police Department or Crime Stoppers of Spartanburg.