Teens, including the victim’s girlfriend, have been taken into custody in connection with the June 24 shooting death of 16-year-old Trey Dean Wright in Florence County, South Carolina, which deputies said was a premeditated set-up.
Teen Lured to Deadly Confrontation
About 45 miles west of Myrtle Beach, on First Neck Road, Wright was found shot multiple times. Wright was killed during a fight over a love quarrel by 19-year-old Conway resident Devan Scott Raper, according to investigators.
The following day, the Florence County Sheriff’s Office arrested Raper. He is still detained without bond after being charged with murder and possessing a weapon during a violent crime.
Girlfriend and Other Teens Accused
Authorities claim that Gianna Kistenmacher, Wright’s 17-year-old girlfriend, participated in the set-up by reportedly inviting Raper to confront Wright while knowing he was armed. It is alleged that she was an accessory before the fact.
In addition, 17-year-old Sydney Kearns and 18-year-olds Corrine Belviso and Hunter Kendall are charged. Belviso and Kearns were released on $20,000 bonds, but Kendall is being held without bond.
The names of four other suspects have not been released since deputies determined they are juveniles. According to officials, the group knew that Raper had threatened the victim and flashed a pistol in the past and was complicit in arranging the encounter.
The New York Post covered the case in great depth.
Sheriff: Motive Tied to Romantic Rivalry
According to Florence County Sheriff T.J. Joyes, the tragic altercation seemed to be about a female.
They were at odds with one another, and it was because of a woman. The unfortunate thing is that you lost a 16-year-old. Your 19-year-old will spend the rest of his life behind bars. What is it over? Joye informed reporters.
Next Steps in the Case
According to the Florence County Sheriff’s Office, the investigation is still ongoing, and when the suspects go on trial, more information might become available. The level of each teen’s involvement in the murder plot will now be ascertained by the prosecution.
These tragedies demonstrate how easily conflicts among young people can turn into fatal acts of violence. For further updates on this case and other public safety news, visit SaltudaStandard-Sentinel.com.
