Florence, SC, August 18, 2025
News Summary
In Florence, South Carolina, nine teenagers have been arrested related to the murder of 16-year-old Trey Dean Wright, whose body was discovered with multiple gunshot wounds. The main suspect, 19-year-old Devan Scott Raper, has been charged with murder. The incident reportedly stemmed from a romantic dispute, highlighting concerns about youth violence in the community. As investigations continue, the community remembers Wright as a vibrant and promising young man.
Florence, South Carolina – Nine teenagers have been arrested in connection with the murder of 16-year-old Trey Dean Wright, whose lifeless body was found on June 24 with multiple gunshot wounds on First Neck Road in Florence County. This incident, which is roughly 45 miles west of Myrtle Beach, has shocked the local community and raised concerns about youth violence.
According to authorities, Devan Scott Raper, a 19-year-old from Conway, is the primary suspect and has been charged with the murder of Wright after a confrontation ostensibly fueled by a dispute over a girl. Raper was apprehended by the Florence County Sheriff’s Office the day following Wright’s death.
Law enforcement officials noted that Raper did not act alone; eight other teenagers are accused of participating in the alleged murder scheme. These individuals are charged with not only orchestrating the set-up but also with recording the incident. Among the accused is Wright’s girlfriend, Giann Kistenmacher, a 17-year-old who faces charges as an accessory before the fact since she allegedly brought Raper to the meeting and was aware that he was armed.
In addition to Kistenmacher, other suspects who have been charged include 18-year-olds Corrine Belviso and Hunter Kendall, as well as 17-year-old Sydney Kearns. The names of the remaining four suspects have not been disclosed due to their status as minors. Kistenmacher initially faced charges as an accessory before the fact but is now also being charged with murder.
According to Maj. Michael Nunn of the Florence County Sheriff’s Office, all charged individuals played a part in the events leading to Wright’s death. Raper faces serious charges that include murder and possession of a weapon during a violent crime, and he is being held without bond. Kendall is also detained without bond, while Belviso and Kearns have been released on $20,000 bonds pending trial.
Trey Dean Wright was remembered by his community as a kind and vibrant young man. A GoFundMe campaign set up for his funeral highlighted him as a “kind soul who touched so many lives.” He was a rising sophomore at Johnsonville High School, where he excelled as a varsity athlete in both football and baseball. Wright was also passionate about the outdoors, often enjoying activities such as riding dirt bikes and spending time in nature.
The motive behind the tragic incident appears to stem from a romantic rivalry, as details indicate that disputes over relationships may have led to the confrontation. Sheriff T.J. Joye expressed sadness regarding the loss of life, stressing the painful implications of such violence within the youth community.
The investigation is ongoing, as the community grapples with the implications of such an event. Authorities hope these arrests will provide some closure for the family and friends of Trey Dean Wright, while underscoring the importance of addressing violence and conflicts among youth in the area.
FAQ
What happened to Trey Dean Wright?
Trey Dean Wright, a 16-year-old, was found dead on June 24, with multiple gunshot wounds. Authorities allege that he was lured to a location in Florence County, South Carolina, where he was fatally shot by Devan Scott Raper during a confrontation possibly related to a romantic dispute.
How many teenagers have been arrested in connection with this case?
Nine teenagers have been arrested in connection with Trey Dean Wright’s murder, including the shooter and several accomplices who allegedly played various roles in orchestrating the incident.
What charges have been filed against the suspects?
The primary suspect, Devan Scott Raper, faces murder charges as well as possession of a weapon during a violent crime. Other charged individuals face varying charges, including accessory before the fact and complicity in the murder scheme.
What was Trey Dean Wright known for?
Trey Dean Wright was a rising sophomore at Johnsonville High School, known for being a proud varsity athlete who played both football and baseball. He was also recognized for his love of the outdoors, including riding dirt bikes and exploring nature.
Key Features
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Incident Date | June 24 |
| Location | First Neck Road, Florence County, South Carolina |
| Victim | Trey Dean Wright, 16 |
| Main Suspect | Devan Scott Raper, 19 |
| Number of Arrests | 9 teenagers |
| Potential Motive | Romantic rivalry |
| School Attended | Johnsonville High School |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Nine Teenagers Arrested in Johnsonville Murder Case
Teen Denied Bond After Violent Police Chase in Myrtle Beach
Nine Teenagers Charged in Myrtle Beach Shooting Case
Gun Incident at Myrtle Beach Middle School Raises Concerns
Georgetown Judge Announces Retirement After Domestic Violence Arrest
South Carolina Appeals Court Upholds $20 Million Verdict Against Beach Service
Stephen Stanko Executed in South Carolina for Double Murder
Shooting Incidents in Chester County Leave One Dead
Shooting at Myrtle Beach Restaurant Claims Teen’s Life
Shooting at Myrtle Beach Restaurant Leaves One Dead
Additional Resources
- WBTW: 8 Now Face Charges in Killing of Johnsonville Teenager Trey Wright
- Hindustan Times: Who Was Trey Dean Wright?
- Fox News: Victim’s Girlfriend Among 9 Teens Arrested
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Crime and Violence
- WPDE: Johnsonville Teen Gianna Kistenmacher Murder Charge Arrest
- Google News: Trey Dean Wright
Author: STAFF HERE MYRTLE BEACH
The HERE Myrtle Beach Staff Writers are a collaborative team of journalists, editors, and local contributors passionate about delivering accurate, timely information to the Myrtle Beach community. As part of the HEREcity.com Network, which powers over 100 U.S. city sites including HEREcolumbia.com, our staff draws on collective experience in South Carolina journalism to cover everything from business sales and real estate developments to dining deals and community initiatives. Our Expertise and Background Local Roots in Myrtle Beach Our team includes lifelong Myrtle Beach residents and SC natives with deep knowledge of the area’s history, economy, and culture. We’ve covered key events like the recent developments along the Grand Strand, Myrtle Beach’s tourism and hospitality industry, and growth in local education sectors (e.g., Coastal Carolina University programs). Collective Experience With over 50 combined years in journalism, our staff has backgrounds in print, digital media, and community reporting. We prioritize fact-based stories, drawing from sources like the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce, city government records, and on-the-ground interviews. Commitment to Quality Every article is a group effort, involving research, editing, and verification to ensure reliability. We adhere to journalistic standards, citing credible sources and updating content as new details emerge.
