South Carolina Teen’s Girlfriend Among 9 Arrested in Florence County Murder of 16-Year-Old

FLORENCE COUNTY, SOUTH CAROLINA – Nine teenagers, including the victim’s girlfriend, have been arrested in connection with the murder of 16-year-old Trey Dean Wright, who was fatally shot on June 24 in what deputies describe as a planned set-up.

Teen Lured to Deadly Confrontation

Wright was discovered on First Neck Road, about 45 miles west of Myrtle Beach, with multiple gunshot wounds. Investigators allege 19-year-old Devan Scott Raper of Conway was the shooter, killing Wright during a confrontation over a romantic dispute.

Raper was taken into custody the next day by the Florence County Sheriff’s Office. He is charged with murder and possession of a weapon during a violent crime and remains in jail without bond.

Girlfriend and Other Teens Accused

Authorities say Wright’s 17-year-old girlfriend, Gianna Kistenmacher, was involved in the set-up by allegedly bringing Raper — knowing he was armed — to confront Wright. She faces charges of being an accessory before the fact.

Also charged are 18-year-olds Corrine Belviso and Hunter Kendall, along with 17-year-old Sydney Kearns. Kendall is being held without bond, while Belviso and Kearns were released on $20,000 bonds.

Deputies confirmed that four additional suspects are minors, so their names have not been made public. Officials said the group was complicit in setting up the meeting and were aware that Raper had previously displayed a firearm and threatened the victim.

The case was detailed in coverage by the New York Post.

Sheriff: Motive Tied to Romantic Rivalry

Florence County Sheriff T.J. Joye said the fatal dispute appeared to be over a girl.

“They had issues with each other, and it was over a female. The sad thing is, 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?” Joye told reporters.

Next Steps in the Case

The Florence County Sheriff’s Office says the investigation is ongoing and additional details may emerge as the suspects face trial. Prosecutors will now determine the extent of each teen’s involvement in the murder scheme.

Tragedies like this highlight how quickly youth disputes can escalate into deadly violence. Stay connected for continuing coverage of this case and other public safety news at SaludaStandard-Sentinel.com.