Nine Teens Arrested in South Carolina 16-Year-Old's Murder Plot, Including Victim's Girlfriend

Nine teenagers, including the 16-year-old victim's girlfriend, have been arrested in connection with the June 24 shooting death of Trey Dean Wright in Florence County, South Carolina. Authorities allege Wright was lured to his death as part of a calculated plot stemming from a romantic rivalry. His body was discovered on First Neck Road with multiple gunshot wounds.

Devan Scott Raper, 19, of Conway, was arrested the day after Wright's body was found and is accused of fatally shooting Wright following an argument. Florence County Sheriff T.J. Joye stated, "They had issues with each other, and it was over a female." Disturbingly, reports indicate that at least one teenager present allegedly recorded the killing on video.

Wright's 17-year-old girlfriend, Gianna Kistenmacher, faces charges as an accessory before the fact. Investigators allege Kistenmacher was complicit in bringing Raper to the incident location, knowing he was armed and that a confrontation was likely. She has since been released on bond to home confinement.

Additional arrests include 18-year-olds Corrine Belviso and Hunter Kendall, and 17-year-old Sydney Kearns, who are also facing charges. Four other suspects, who are minors, have not been publicly identified. Maj. Michael Nunn of the Florence County Sheriff’s Office explained that the decision to charge multiple individuals with murder was made in consultation with the solicitor's office, citing the South Carolina law that "the hand of one being the hand of all" applies.

Trey Dean Wright, a rising sophomore at Johnsonville High School, was a varsity athlete in both football and baseball. Described by a GoFundMe campaign as "a kind soul who touched so many lives," Wright was known for his infectious smile and love for the outdoors. His mother, Ashley Lindsey, expressed the emotional toll of the ongoing legal proceedings, stating, "All this court hearing and bond court and stuff is driving me crazy."

Raper remains held without bond, charged with murder and possession of a weapon during a violent crime. Kendall is also being held without bond, while Belviso and Kearns have posted bond and been released pending trial. The investigation continues as authorities piece together the full extent of the alleged plot and the roles of all involved.