Florida Teens Gabriel Williams and Kimahri Blevins Charged With Murder of 14-Year-Old Danika Troy, Found Shot and Burned Near Pace

Gabriel Coleman Williams (left) and Kimahri Blevins

Two Florida teenagers have been arrested and charged with premeditated first-degree murder in the killing of 14-year-old Danika Jade Troy, whose body was found shot and burned in a wooded area near Pace, Florida, according to the Santa Rosa County Sheriff’s Office.

Sheriff Bob Johnson identified the suspects as 16-year-old Gabriel Coleman Williams and 14-year-old Kimahri Blevins, both of whom are being held without bond. Prosecutors are seeking to try them as adults.

Authorities say Troy was allegedly lured to a secluded area on Sunday, Nov. 30, where she was shot multiple times before her body was set on fire. Investigators believe the attack stemmed from a social media dispute between the teens, who were reportedly classmates of Danika.

Sheriff Johnson described the crime as “horrific.”

Danika Reported Missing Before Body Discovered in Woods

Danika’s mother, Ashley Troy, reported her daughter missing on Monday morning when she discovered both Danika and her electric scooter were gone from their home.

14-Year-Old Danika Troy

On Tuesday, deputies located a burned body approximately 50 yards into a wooded area near 3970 Kimberly Road, along with a black-and-red electric scooter and several 9 mm bullet casings. The remains were later identified as Danika based on clothing and the scooter description.

Witness Account and Suspect Statements

According to investigators, a cooperating witness came forward and reported that Williams and Blevins had planned the attack in advance. The witness claimed the plan was initially to shoot Danika once, but Williams allegedly continued firing before the body was burned.

Gabriel Coleman Williams

Williams reportedly confessed to detectives, saying Danika had made hurtful comments toward him that angered him. When questioned, Blevins asked for an attorney and was subsequently arrested.

Both suspects are currently in the custody of the Department of Juvenile Justice as the investigation continues. 

Kimahri Blevins

School District, Community Respond

The Santa Rosa County District Schools released a statement expressing heartbreak over the loss:

“Santa Rosa County District Schools is deeply saddened by the tragic loss of one of our students. Our hearts are with the family as they face an unimaginable loss,” the district wrote, adding that additional counseling services are being made available at the affected school.

The district confirmed that two students had been arrested in connection with the off-campus incident and said it is fully cooperating with law enforcement.

Fundraiser Supports Grieving Family

A fundraiser created to support the Troy family has raised nearly $10,000 of its $16,000 goal as of publication, helping with funeral costs and additional family needs.

Authorities continue to gather evidence as they build the case against Williams and review potential charges for Blevins.