Florence, South Carolina, August 17, 2025
News Summary
In a shocking case from Florence, South Carolina, nine teenagers have been charged in relation to the murder of 16-year-old Trey Dean Wright. The primary suspect, 19-year-old Devan Scott Raper, allegedly shot Wright following a dispute over a romantic interest. The incident has sparked concerns about rising youth violence and the motivations behind such tragic events. Several other minors are also implicated, leading to calls for community intervention and dialogue on preventing future occurrences.
Florence, South Carolina
Nine teenagers have been charged in a murder plot involving the tragic death of 16-year-old Trey Dean Wright. Wright was found dead on June 24 in Florence County, with multiple gunshot wounds that raised alarms about youth violence and rivalry in the community. The investigation implicated not only the person accused of pulling the trigger but also several others who allegedly played a role in luring him to his death.
The primary suspect, Devan Scott Raper, a 19-year-old from Conway, is accused of shooting Wright following an argument related to a romantic interest. Raper was apprehended the day after the incident. Reports indicate that he acted in concert with eight other teens, each facing various charges linked to the crime and suggesting a structured plan to confront Wright.
Raper’s girlfriend, Gianna Kistenmacher, 17, has been charged as an accessory before the fact. Authorities allege she brought the armed Raper to the incident, instigating the confrontation that culminated in Wright’s death. Other individuals charged include 18-year-olds Corrine Belviso and Hunter Kendall, along with 17-year-old Sydney Kearns. Four of the nine suspects are minors, and their identities remain undisclosed due to their age.
According to Major Michael Nunn of the Florence County Sheriff’s Office, the group was complicit in the plan to bring Raper to Wright, fully aware that there were threats made against Wright’s life. The nature of the case has drawn significant attention due to the involvement of multiple teenagers in a violent act against another teen.
The motives behind the murder appear rooted in a romantic rivalry over a female, as noted by Sheriff T.J. Joye. The unfolding events have raised concerns about the prevalence of youth violence in the area. Raper now faces serious charges, including murder and possession of a weapon during a violent crime, and is currently held without bond. Hunter Kendall also faces charges and remains in custody without bond. In contrast, Belviso and Kearns have been released after posting bonds of $20,000 each.
Initially, the charges against Kistenmacher were for accessory after the fact but have since been elevated to murder, reflecting the evolving nature of this case. Authorities continue to investigate, with new arrest warrants pending for additional suspects thought to be involved, including one facing murder charges.
The shocking nature of such an incident involving multiple young people has left the community wary and deeply concerned about youth violence. The focus now shifts to judicial proceedings as the case unfolds, with ongoing discussions about the trends and causes of such behavior among teenagers.
Key Details of the Case
- Victim: Trey Dean Wright, 16
- Primary Suspect: Devan Scott Raper, 19
- Charges Against Raper: Murder, possession of a weapon during a violent crime
- Other Charged Individuals: Gianna Kistenmacher (17), Corrine Belviso (18), Hunter Kendall (18), Sydney Kearns (17)
- Nature of Motive: Romantic rivalry
- Current Status: Raper and Kendall held without bond; Belviso and Kearns released on bail
- Pending: Additional warrants for further suspects
Impact and Community Response
This incident starkly illustrates the burgeoning issue of youth violence and rivalry, prompting community leaders and authorities to reassess safety measures and interventions for teenagers. As the legal process progresses, many are hopeful for a dialogue on preventing such tragic outcomes in the future.
FAQ Section
What happened to Trey Dean Wright?
Trey Dean Wright was found dead on June 24 due to multiple gunshot wounds. Nineteen-year-old Devan Scott Raper is accused of the murder.
How many teenagers were arrested in connection with this case?
Nine teenagers have been charged in total, involving varying roles in the crime, including charges of murder and accessory before the fact.
What were the motivations behind the crime?
The motive behind the crime is reported to stem from a romantic rivalry over a girl.
What are the current legal proceedings for the accused?
Devan Raper and Hunter Kendall are being held without bond, while other arrested individuals, Corrine Belviso and Sydney Kearns, have been released on bail after posting bonds of $20,000 each.
Key Features Chart
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Victim | Trey Dean Wright, 16 |
| Main Suspect | Devan Scott Raper, 19 |
| Charges against Raper | Murder, possession of a weapon during a violent crime |
| Other Accused | Gianna Kistenmacher (17), Corrine Belviso (18), Hunter Kendall (18), Sydney Kearns (17) |
| Motive | Romantic rivalry over a girl |
| Status of Suspects | Raper and Kendall held without bond; Belviso and Kearns out on bail |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Nine Teens Arrested in Connection with Teenage Murder
Four Teens Charged in Johnsonville Murder Case
Teen Faces Charges in Fatal Shooting of 16-Year-Old in Johnsonville
Fatal Shooting Claims Life of 16-Year-Old in South Carolina
Three Arrested After Teen Shot Dead in Florence
Recent Arrests in Florence, SC Highlight Safety Concerns
Tragedy Strikes Florence as Police Charge Juvenile in Shooting Incident
Additional Resources
- WBTW News
- Wikipedia: Youth violence
- Post and Courier
- Google Search: Florence County teen violence
- New York Post
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Murder
- Hindustan Times
- Google News: Trey Dean Wright case
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.
