South Carolina Teen Murder Case: Nine Arrested in Chilling Plot That Claimed the Life of 16-Year-Old Trey Dean Wright
Authorities in Florence County, South Carolina, have arrested nine teenagers in connection with the murder of 16-year-old Trey Dean Wright, who was lured to his death in what investigators describe as a carefully planned plot.
Wright was found shot to death on June 24. Police allege that the accused gunman, Devan Scott Raper, 19, fatally shot him during a confrontation fueled by jealousy and a dispute over a girl. Raper now faces murder charges and is being held without bond.
Investigators revealed that Wright’s own girlfriend, Giann Kistenmacher, 17, played a critical role in setting up the ambush, allegedly knowing that Raper was armed. Several other teenagers have also been charged, including Corrine Belviso, 18; Hunter Kendall, 18; and Sydney Kearns, 17. Four additional suspects, all minors, are facing charges but have not been publicly identified due to their ages.
Authorities say the disturbing case was further compounded by reports that some of the teens recorded the killing on video.
Florence County Sheriff T.J. Joye called the case a heartbreaking tragedy, highlighting the devastating consequences of youthful impulsiveness and jealousy:
“You got a 16-year-old that lost his life. You’ve got a 19-year-old who is going to be in jail the rest of his life. Over what?”
The case has shocked the community, leaving families on both sides shattered — one grieving the senseless loss of a young life, and others grappling with the reality that their children are facing serious criminal charges.
Authorities continue to investigate as the suspects remain in custody, with the case underscoring the dangers of violence, peer influence, and reckless decision-making among teenagers.
