Authorities in South Carolina are investigating a heartbreaking incident involving a 19-year-old woman who lost her life after being struck by gunfire while seated in the passenger side of a vehicle. Officials identified the victim as Zynaija Thomas, a young woman from Bishopville whose passing has deeply affected loved ones and community members. The Florence County Coroner also confirmed that Thomas was expecting a child, noting she was in the early stages of pregnancy at the time of the incident — an additional layer of sorrow that has weighed heavily on many.
Law enforcement officials reported that a 17-year-old, identified by authorities as Ja’kaurie Bell, has been taken into custody in connection with the shooting. According to investigators, Bell is facing multiple charges, including taking a life, attempting to harm another person, and possessing a weapon during an unlawful act. These charges reflect the gravity of the situation and the potential consequences for everyone involved.
The incident occurred on December 1, along a residential part of Roberts Street in Florence. Officers responded after receiving reports of gunfire in the area. During the course of their investigation, law enforcement obtained video from a nearby location that appeared to show a vehicle present around the time the shots were fired. Using this footage, investigators were able to locate the vehicle and, according to their findings, determined that Bell had been behind the wheel.
Officials allege that Bell drove several individuals to the area where the victim and her boyfriend were seated inside their car. Those in the vehicle reportedly opened fire toward Thomas and her boyfriend. While her boyfriend was not physically harmed, he quickly drove Thomas to a nearby hospital in an effort to get her medical attention. Sadly, despite those efforts, she passed away.
After being identified as a suspect, Bell was taken to a local detention facility where he is awaiting a scheduled bond hearing. Authorities are still reviewing evidence and interviewing individuals connected to the case, and they have not ruled out the possibility that more arrests could occur as the investigation progresses.
The shooting has left residents of Roberts Street and the surrounding neighborhood rattled. Several community members expressed deep sadness and concern after learning of the circumstances. One resident shared that he wishes there were fewer weapons in the community, believing such change could help prevent tragedies like this one. Another neighbor admitted that thinking about the victim’s boyfriend — and imagining if his own children were in a similar situation — has made it difficult for him to rest.
Florence Interim Police Chief Stephen Starling addressed the tragedy publicly, describing Thomas’ death as a devastating loss. He urged the community to come together and take an active role in providing guidance, support, and positive influences for young people. According to Starling, meaningful mentorship and compassion can help deter conflicts from escalating into violence. He emphasized that encouraging communication and helping individuals solve problems without resorting to harmful actions is essential for building safer neighborhoods.
Authorities stress that the case remains open, and additional details may emerge as investigators continue their work. In the meantime, the community is mourning the loss of a young woman whose life was cut short far too soon, and conversations about safety, youth support, and violence prevention are growing louder.
