Florence, South Carolina — A tragic drive-by shooting in Florence, South Carolina, left a 19-year-old pregnant woman dead and sparked an intense police investigation that led to the arrest of a 17-year-old suspect.
Authorities say the victim, Zynaija Thomas of Bishopville, was approximately 19 weeks pregnant when she was fatally shot while sitting in a parked car on December 1.
Victim Was Sitting in Passenger Seat When Shots Were Fired
According to the Florence Police Department, the shooting occurred along the 600 block of Roberts Street, where Thomas was seated in the passenger seat of a vehicle alongside her boyfriend. Gunfire erupted from a passing car, striking Thomas and leaving her critically injured.
Her boyfriend, who was not harmed, immediately drove her to a nearby hospital. Despite medical efforts, Thomas later died from her injuries. The coroner confirmed both she and her unborn child were lost in the attack.
Teen Suspect Arrested and Charged With Murder
Investigators say 17-year-old Ja’kaurie Bell has been arrested and charged in connection with the deadly shooting. Bell is facing murder, attempted murder, and possession of a weapon during the commission of a violent crime.
Police report that surveillance video played a crucial role in identifying the suspect. Footage showed a vehicle of interest near the scene around the time of the shooting. Detectives later located the vehicle and determined that Bell had been the driver.
Authorities believe Bell drove himself and others to the location, where they allegedly opened fire on the vehicle occupied by Thomas and her boyfriend. Police have not confirmed the involvement of additional suspects but say further arrests could still be possible.
Bell has been transferred to a detention center and is awaiting a bond hearing.
Community Members Express Fear and Anguish
Residents in Florence say the killing has shocked the community, particularly given the victim’s young age and pregnancy. One resident said he wishes guns could be taken off the streets entirely, while another said he keeps thinking about Thomas’ boyfriend and his own children who are around the same age.
For many, the tragedy has underscored the growing concerns over youth violence in the area.
Florence Interim Police Chief Stephen Starling described the killing as a heartbreaking reminder of the consequences of unchecked conflict and easy access to firearms.
“We have to, as a society, start raising better, doing better jobs mentoring and coaching, and helping youth,” Starling said. “Too many young people’s first instinct is to pick up a gun instead of talking things out.”
Read Also: Teen Finds Mother Murdered and Stepfather Covered in Blood After Domestic Attack
Investigation Remains Active as Police Seek More Information
Detectives continue to uncover details about what may have led to the shooting. While a motive has not yet been released, officials say they are still piecing together how the encounter escalated to violence.
Authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward as they work to determine whether additional suspects or accomplices played a role.
As the community grieves the loss of a young woman and her unborn child, officials and residents alike are calling for stronger mentorship, conflict resolution efforts, and community engagement to help prevent similar tragedies in the future.
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