A South Carolina community is grieving after the death of 18-year-old Ja’Niya Richburg, a notable basketball player, who was fatally shot by a bullet that penetrated a window late Tuesday night, April 29, 2025. Richburg, a senior at Loris High School in Loris, South Carolina, was killed at a residence in Conway.
The incident occurred around 11 p.m. on the 1700 block of Horry Street, as reported by authorities. Initially, Horry County Chief Deputy Coroner Tamara Willard stated that Richburg died in her home, but later clarified that she was at her boyfriend’s residence during the incident.
Conway police have detained 19-year-old Derrick Que’shawn Ashley of Conway, South Carolina, in connection with the shooting. Ashley faces charges of murder, forgery less than $10,000, and careless operation. He is being held at the J. Reuben Long Detention Center without bond.
Richburg was a distinguished athlete at Loris High School, making history as the first female basketball player to achieve 1,000 career points and 1,000 career rebounds. In March 2025, the South Carolina Basketball Coaches Association recognized her as a 3-A All-State player and named her a three-time Region Player of the Year.
Her athletic achievements were not limited to basketball; Richburg also excelled on the track team and received statewide recognition for her talents.
The Horry County School District acknowledged Richburg’s death, emphasizing her academic and athletic accomplishments. “Ja’Niya Richburg, a senior at Loris High School, was known for her vibrant personality as well as her outstanding achievements in both academics and athletics,” stated the district.
Richburg had plans to attend the University of South Carolina as a pre-med student. In an interview with local news outlet WBTW, she shared her aspirations: “It’s always been my thing since I was younger. I chose that because of the environment I’m always in, I want to go far and be able to provide for my family.”
According to teammates, Richburg had also contemplated joining the Air Force. Her peers remembered her as a kind person with a vibrant personality, passionate about basketball, and excelling in academics.
Karmen Moody, a teammate, commented on the impact of Richburg’s death on the school community, noting the difficulty of the situation. “It’s hard for us as a team, as well as for the community, friends, family,” Moody told WBTW. “But we’re all trying to stay strong for her and have each other in this hard time, in this moment.”
Loris High School has made counseling services available to students and staff affected by the loss. “The loss of a student impacts the entire school community; therefore, Loris High School is offering counseling services to any student or staff member who may be affected by the tragedy,” the school district stated.
The investigation into the shooting is ongoing, and authorities have not disclosed further details regarding others present at the scene. No updates have been provided about the boyfriend’s identity or his involvement in the ongoing investigation.
