Johnsonville, South Carolina, August 17, 2025
News Summary
In Johnsonville, South Carolina, nine teenagers have been arrested following the murder of 16-year-old Trey Dean Wright, who was shot multiple times on June 24. The suspected shooter, Devan Scott Raper, is accused of killing Wright due to a romantic rivalry. Among those arrested are individuals aged 17 to 19, facing charges ranging from murder to accessory before the fact. The investigation continues as officials address issues of youth violence and its consequences on the community.
Johnsonville, South Carolina – Nine teenagers have been arrested in connection with the murder of 16-year-old Trey Dean Wright, who was found dead from multiple gunshot wounds on June 24 in Florence County. The incident occurred about 45 miles west of Myrtle Beach and has shocked the local community.
Devan Scott Raper, a 19-year-old from Conway, is accused of fatally shooting Wright following a confrontation over a romantic rivalry. Raper was taken into custody just a day after the incident on June 25. Authorities reported that the conflict stemmed from competition for the affections of Wright’s girlfriend, Gianna Kistenmacher, 17, who is also facing charges for her alleged role in facilitating the fatal meeting between the two young men.
A total of nine teenagers are implicated in Wright’s death, with charges ranging from murder to accessory before the fact. In addition to Raper and Kistenmacher, 18-year-olds Corrine Belviso and Hunter Kendall, along with 17-year-old Sydney Kearns, are also charged in connection with the case. The details surrounding four remaining suspects have not been disclosed due to their minor status. All charged individuals allegedly played roles in assisting Raper in reaching the scene where the confrontation occurred, with evidence suggesting they had anticipated violence.
Major Michael Nunn of the Florence County Sheriff’s Office indicated that the investigation has revealed that Raper brandished a firearm and made threats against Wright before the shooting. The motive of the killing has been identified as a romantic rivalry between Raper and the victim.
According to Sheriff T.J. Joye, this tragic situation is a significant loss of young life, and it raises broader concerns regarding the severe consequences faced by the individual accused of the murder. Currently, Raper is charged with murder and possession of a weapon during the commission of a violent crime and is being held without bond. Kendall is also being held without bond, while Belviso and Kearns were released on a $20,000 bond each pending trial.
The decision to charge multiple teenagers with murder came after discussions with the solicitor’s office, pointing to South Carolina laws that hold all participants responsible in such incidents. The investigation remains ongoing, with authorities expecting one more individual to turn themselves in shortly.
This incident highlights the severe repercussions of youth violence and the tragic loss of life associated with disputes rooted in personal relationships. As the investigation continues, the ramifications of this case are likely to resonate throughout the community and beyond.
FAQ Section
What happened to Trey Dean Wright?
Trey Dean Wright, a 16-year-old from Johnsonville, was found dead from multiple gunshot wounds on June 24, 2023. Devan Scott Raper is accused of shooting him over a romantic rivalry.
How many individuals have been arrested in connection with this case?
A total of nine teenagers have been arrested, facing various charges including murder and accessory before the fact.
What are the charges against Devan Scott Raper?
Devan Scott Raper faces charges of murder and possession of a weapon during a violent crime.
Key Features of the Incident
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Victim | Trey Dean Wright, 16 years old |
| Location | First Neck Road, Florence County, SC |
| Motive | Romantic rivalry over a girl |
| Primary Allegation | Devan Scott Raper accused of murder |
| Charges against others | Murder and accessory charges among nine teenagers |
| Ongoing Investigation | One more suspect expected to turn themselves in |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Nine Teenagers Charged in Murder Plot of Trey Dean Wright
Nine Teens Arrested in Connection with Teenage Murder
Four Teens Charged in Johnsonville Murder Case
Authorities Seek Public Assistance in Locating Missing Teen
Teen Faces Charges in Fatal Shooting of 16-Year-Old in Johnsonville
Fatal Shooting Claims Life of 16-Year-Old in South Carolina
Tragic Shooting Claims Life of 16-Year-Old in Johnsonville, SC
Tragic Shooting Claims Life of Local Teen in Florence County
Three Arrested After Teen Shot Dead in Florence
Recent Arrests in Florence, SC Highlight Safety Concerns
Additional Resources
- WBTW News
- Post and Courier
- Fox 4 News
- New York Post
- Hindustan Times
- Wikipedia: Youth violence
- Google Search: South Carolina murder teens Trey Wright
- Google Scholar: youth violence South Carolina
- Encyclopedia Britannica: youth violence
- Google News: Trey Dean Wright incident
Author: STAFF HERE FLORENCE WRITER
FLORENCE STAFF WRITER The FLORENCE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREFlorence.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Florence, Florence County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Florence Festival of Lights, Pee Dee Pride, and agricultural expos at the Florence Center. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Florence Regional Chamber of Commerce and the Pee Dee Area Council of Governments, plus leading businesses in healthcare and retail that power the local economy such as McLeod Health and Pee Dee Electric Cooperative. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERECharleston.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGreenville.com, and HEREHiltonHead.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
