Florida Teenagers Charged With Premeditated Murder in Killing of 14-Year-Old Girl
Authorities in Florida have charged two teenage boys with premeditated murder following the killing of a 14-year-old girl whose body was found burned in a wooded area of Santa Rosa County.
The Santa Rosa County Sheriff’s Office said 16-year-old Gabriel Coleman Williams and 14-year-old Kimahri Blevins were arrested on Thursday in connection with the death of Danika Jade Troy. Investigators allege the pair lured her to a remote area, shot her multiple times, then set her body on fire.
According to the sheriff’s office, Danika was reported missing by her mother, Ashley Troy, after she did not return home and her electric scooter was found to be missing. The disappearance prompted an urgent search.
On Tuesday, deputies discovered a burned body approximately 50 yards inside a wooded area near 3970 Kimberly Road. At the scene, investigators also found a black and red electric scooter matching the description provided by the family, along with several 9mm shell casings. Authorities later confirmed the body was Danika’s, based on clothing and the scooter found nearby.
Investigators said a cooperating witness informed deputies that Williams and Blevins had planned the killing in advance. According to an arrest report, the initial plan was to shoot Danika once. However, detectives allege Williams continued firing multiple shots before dousing her body with gasoline and setting it on fire.
During questioning, Williams reportedly told detectives that Danika had made comments he found hurtful, which he said upset him. Blevins, authorities said, requested legal counsel during questioning and did not provide a statement.
Both teenagers have been charged with premeditated murder and are currently being held in the custody of the Florida Department of Juvenile Justice.
The Santa Rosa County Sheriff’s Office said the investigation remains active as deputies continue gathering evidence to support the charges and determine whether additional charges may be filed.
In a statement released after the arrests, the Santa Rosa County District School District acknowledged the case and expressed condolences to the victim’s family and those affected by the killing. The district said it is cooperating with law enforcement and providing support resources to students and staff as needed.
Authorities have not released further details about the relationship between the suspects and the victim or what led to the alleged plan. Investigators said additional information will be made public as the case progresses.
