Reports from the area indicate that a South Carolina teenager was involved in a “girl-related” conflict leading to the shooting death of another teen. The victim, a 16-year-old named Tray Dean Wright, was found on June 24 with multiple gunshot wounds about 45 miles west of Myrtle Beach.
In the days following the incident, a 19-year-old named Devan Scott Raper from Conway was arrested. It’s alleged that at least one teen recorded the event on video, and authorities continued to make arrests as their investigation progressed.
“The hearings, the bond courts, it’s all just overwhelming,” Wright’s mother, Ashley Lindsay, shared, expressing her grief and frustration. “I’ve lost my son, and I don’t even have time to process everything that’s happening.”
Reports suggest a whole group of teenagers are now facing charges. Among the suspects is Wright’s girlfriend, 17-year-old Gianna Kistenmacher, who is accused of taking Raper to the scene aware of his intentions to harm her boyfriend.
A spokesperson from the Sheriff’s Office did not respond to inquiries. Prosecutors confirmed that nine teenagers have been indicted but would not provide further details due to the ongoing nature of the case.
Major General Michael Nun from the Florence County Sheriff’s Office indicated that the teens allegedly colluded to bring Raper, who was armed, to the site, fully aware of an existing conflict. He emphasized that under state law, these individuals would all be charged as adults.
Adding to the situation, authorities mentioned that additional murder charges have been filed against ten more individuals connected to the Myrtle Beach area.
Sheriff TJ Joye further commented, suggesting that the tragic shooting was rooted in rivalry surrounding romantic interests. “It was more than just a dispute over girls,” he noted. “It’s heartbreaking that a 16-year-old lost his life and a 19-year-old now faces a long prison term.”
Currently, Raper is in custody facing charges for murder and possession of a weapon during a violent crime. Meanwhile, another suspect, Kendall, is also being held without bond, while Belviso and Kearns have been released on bond as they await trial.
