A horrifying crime has shaken a Florida community after two teenagers were accused of luring a 14-year-old girl into the woods before killing her and setting her body on fire.

Authorities in Santa Rosa County say 14-year-old Danika Troy was murdered by two teenage boys -- Kimahri Blevins and Gabriel Williams—who now face first-degree premeditated murder charges in what police describe as a planned and brutal attack, as the Independent reports.

The body of Danika Troy was found on Tuesday in Pace, a small town located near the Alabama border. A resident came upon the scene in a wooded area and immediately notified the Santa Rosa County Sheriff’s Office. Deputies responded swiftly, securing the area and opening an investigation into what they described as a grisly discovery.

Troy had last been seen by her family on Sunday. When she failed to return home, her loved ones filed a missing person report on Monday. Less than 24 hours later, Troy’s remains were discovered, launching a double homicide investigation that would quickly focus on two teen suspects from the area.

Kimahri Blevins, 14, and Gabriel Williams, 16, were arrested shortly after the discovery of the body. According to investigators, the pair allegedly planned Troy’s murder and deliberately lured her into the woods under pretenses.

Youth Suspects Face Adult Charges in Savage Crime

The suspects are being detained by the Florida Department of Juvenile Justice while prosecutors consider trying them as adults. Sheriff Bob Johnson expressed his intent to pursue the most serious legal consequences available under the law.

“You do an adult crime, you need to do adult time,” Johnson said during a press briefing. He added that his department is working closely with the State Attorney’s Office to elevate the charges to adult court, where the full weight of the justice system can be applied.

Preliminary evidence suggests the attack on Danika was not only premeditated but vicious in nature. Sheriff Johnson confirmed that Troy had been shot multiple times before her body was set on fire. The official cause of death has not yet been released, pending the completion of the autopsy and forensic examinations.

Witness Details Alleged Discussions About the Crime

An individual identified in police records as a cooperating witness told investigators that Blevins shared disturbing details about the killing. According to the witness, Blevins said the initial plan was only to shoot Danika once. However, the situation escalated when Williams continued to shoot multiple rounds.

After the shots were fired, Blevins allegedly told the witness that they had ignited Danika’s body and then fled the scene. This version of events largely aligns with the evidence collected at the site, sheriff’s officials said.

More chilling facts have surfaced from interviews with the suspects themselves. Police documents state that Blevins allegedly cut off communication with Troy after an argument during Thanksgiving break. He reportedly told officers that he had blocked her on social media and hadn’t spoken to her since.

Alleged Conflict Between Teens Cited as Trigger

Meanwhile, Williams reportedly told authorities that he had been hurt by comments Danika made about him, calling him “worthless” and a “gang-banger.” Investigators are trying to determine if this perceived insult played a role in the motive behind the killing.

While no definitive motive has been confirmed, law enforcement officials insist that the murder appeared to be carefully thought out by the suspects. Sheriff Johnson declined to pinpoint a single reason behind the killing, but reaffirmed his office's dedication to building a strong case with the State Attorney. “There’s not a clear motive,” Johnson said, “but I can tell you this: we're going to be hopefully working with the State Attorney's office to get these individuals charged as adults.”

Lessons to Learn

This devastating case offers important lessons for young people, parents, and community members about crime prevention and online interaction.

1. Communication breakdowns between teens can escalate if ignored. Danika’s fallout with one of the suspects reportedly began online, highlighting the importance of monitoring social media discussions and addressing emotional conflicts before they become dangerous.

2. Firearm safety and access remain critical public issues. Investigators believe that the handgun used in the crime was stolen from a suspect’s mother, reminding families of the need for secure firearm storage to prevent access by minors.

3. Teen violence can emerge in unexpected places. Communities must remain vigilant, teach conflict resolution at an early age, and never underestimate the potential seriousness of threats among adolescents. That said, crime can strike anywhere despite preparation, and the burden always lies with the perpetrator—not the victim.

Why This Story Matters

This case has rattled the town of Pace and the surrounding areas by unveiling an unimaginable act of violence committed by teens. It forces local law enforcement and residents to confront issues of youth violence, mental health, and warning signs on social media.

The deeply disturbing circumstances behind Danika Troy’s murder have led to community conversations about safety, justice, and how to prevent similar tragedies. It reminds us all how precious -- and fragile -- young lives can be.