FLORENCE COUNTY, S.C. — A tragic case that has shaken the Johnsonville community has taken a new turn as authorities arrested Gianna Helene Kistenmacher, a 17-year-old from Myrtle Beach, in connection with the shooting death of 16-year-old Trey Wright.

Kistenmacher was taken into custody on Monday, June 24, 2025, and charged with accessory before the fact to a felony, according to Florence County Sheriff TJ Joye. The arrest comes just days after 19-year-old Devan Raper of Conway was charged with murder in connection with Wright’s killing.

The Incident

The shooting occurred around 11:30 p.m. on Tuesday, June 18, on First Neck Road in the Johnsonville area of Florence County. Deputies responding to reports of gunfire found Trey Wright lying in the roadway suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. He was rushed to a nearby hospital but later died from his injuries.

According to Major Mike Nunn with the Florence County Sheriff’s Office, the investigation uncovered evidence that Kistenmacher knowingly transported Raper to the scene, fully aware that he was armed and intended to confront the victim. Authorities say that based on statements made in her presence, Kistenmacher understood the situation could likely end in deadly violence.

The Motive and Charges

Sheriff Joye confirmed that the shooting stemmed from a personal conflict between the suspect and the victim, reportedly involving a girl. “This was an altercation between two people,” Joye said. “It’s not like I’m just going to go to Johnsonville and shoot somebody. 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?”

Kistenmacher’s role in the incident, although not involving the actual shooting, has led to a serious felony charge due to her alleged foreknowledge and facilitation of the confrontation. Her bond was denied during a court hearing, and she remains in custody as the case progresses.

Meanwhile, Devan Raper was booked into the Florence County Detention Center late Wednesday night and appeared in Florence County Magistrate Court on Thursday morning. His next court appearance is scheduled for August 19 in General Sessions Court. He will remain in custody until then.

Ongoing Investigation

The case remains under active investigation, and the Florence County Sheriff’s Office has indicated that additional charges and arrests may still be forthcoming. Authorities are continuing to interview witnesses and analyze evidence, including video footage of the altercation that was captured and is now in the possession of investigators.

A Community in Mourning

The killing of Trey Wright, a 16-year-old from Johnsonville, has left the local community heartbroken and searching for answers. Friends and classmates have taken to social media to express their grief, describing Trey as a “bright soul” and “a kid with a big heart and a love for life.”

As the legal proceedings move forward, the community grapples with the painful reality of a young life cut short and the far-reaching consequences that now face both the accused and their families.

Anyone with additional information that may assist the investigation is urged to contact the Florence County Sheriff’s Office.