COLUMBIA, SC – A seemingly random encounter led to tragedy in Columbia when a 22-year-old woman, visiting friends, was fatally shot by a man on a widespread crime spree, according to local authorities.

Alexander Dickey, 30, has been charged in connection with the murder of Logan Federico, which occurred at a rental property in a busy neighborhood near the University of South Carolina, based on reports from the Columbia Police Department and the Lexington County Sheriff’s Office.

Authorities say Dickey began targeting two homes on Cypress Street in the early hours of Saturday morning. In the course of breaking into adjacent homes and pilfering through personal items such as wallets and credit cards, Dickey reportedly crossed paths with Federico, according to Columbia Police Chief William Holbrook.

It is believed that Federico returned home around 3 a.m., coinciding with the time Dickey allegedly entered her residence and fatally shot her, Holbrook noted.

The discovery of Federico’s body by friends prompted a police response to the scene later that morning. Dickey is accused of subsequently stealing a car from the property and using it to travel across counties, committing further crimes.

In what was described by Holbrook as a “shopping spree,” Dickey used stolen financial cards at several stores in Lexington County before making his way to Saluda County, where he attempted additional fraudulent transactions. His venture reportedly included summoning a tow service to relocate the stolen vehicle to Gaston County.

“This tragic and senseless act has gravely affected a community, and our thoughts are with the loved ones of Federico,” stated Sheriff Bryan Koon, emphasizing the random nature of the crime spree that spanned two counties and numerous law enforcement jurisdictions.

Authorities have dismissed any prior connection between Dickey and Federico, suggesting instead a series of opportunistic crimes led to their deadly encounter.

Dickey stands charged in Richland County with murder, burglary, grand larceny, financial card theft, and possession of a weapon during a violent crime. Additional charges in Lexington County include first-degree burglary and second-degree arson. He remains in custody following a denial of bond.