The community of Florence County, South Carolina, continues to grapple with the aftermath of the June 24, 2025, death of 16-year-old Trey Dean Wright. Authorities have charged nine teenagers in connection with the killing, citing state law that allows accomplices to face equal charges even if they did not pull the trigger. Investigators allege the group acted collectively in luring Wright to a remote area near Johnsonville, where a confrontation turned deadly.
At the center of the case is 19-year-old Devan Raper of Conway, who was arrested the day after the shooting. He remains in custody on charges of murder and possession of a weapon during a violent crime. Officials say Raper fired the shots that fatally wounded Wright during a fight. Wright died from his injuries the following day, sparking an outpouring of grief among classmates, teammates, and community members.
Several others, including Wright’s 17-year-old girlfriend, Gianna Kistenmacher, were also arrested for their alleged involvement. Authorities claim Kistenmacher played a role in luring Wright to the site of the confrontation, making her an accessory before the fact. While some of the suspects have been released on bond, others remain in custody as investigators continue to untangle the events leading up to the tragedy.
Florence County Sheriff TJ Joye described the case as deeply troubling, calling it a tragic example of how personal disputes can spiral out of control. He revealed that portions of the altercation were captured on video, providing crucial evidence for investigators. Joye emphasized that the confrontation, while rooted in personal disagreements, had consequences that extended far beyond the individuals directly involved.
The sheriff also noted that additional suspects may still face charges, including juveniles whose names have not been released due to their age. The wide scope of arrests underscores how many young people were entangled in the events of that night. What began as a dispute ended with one teenager dead and multiple others facing life-altering criminal charges.
As the legal process unfolds, Wright’s family and friends are left mourning the loss of a boy remembered as kind-hearted, athletic, and full of life. He played both football and baseball at Johnsonville High School, where he was cherished by teammates and coaches alike. A GoFundMe campaign was launched to support his family, and on July 3, loved ones gathered for a celebration of life to honor his memory. The tragedy serves as both a painful reminder of youth cut short and a cautionary tale about the devastating ripple effects of violence.
