Danika Troy: Florida Teen Lured Into Woods, Shot and Set on Fire by Two Boys Faking a Crush on Her

The murder of 14‑year‑old Danika Troy has left her small Florida community reeling after authorities say she was cruelly deceived into following two boys into the woods, with one of whom allegedly pretended to have romantic feelings for her.

According to her grieving mother Ashley Troy, the 16‑year‑old suspect Gabriel Williams, pretended to have feelings for her. 'That's how she was lured,' she said. Another teenager, 14-year-old Kimahri Blevins, has also been charged in connection of the crime.

'She just wanted to be in love,' Ashley told The New York Post, reflecting on her daughter's trusting and innocent nature. The emotional betrayal, built on false affection, makes the crime feel all the more heartbreaking for those who knew Danika and her family.

Community Mourns After Teenager's Death

The loss of Danika has sent shock waves through her hometown of Pace and the broader Panhandle community. Friends, neighbours and members of the local church gathered on the evening of 8 December at Avalon Baptist Church in Milton for a candle‑light vigil to honour her memory.

Attendees remembered Danika as a sweet and trusting girl. Her mother and others expressed disbelief that such cruelty could come from someone her age. The vigil also became a poignant moment of community solidarity, offering support to the grieving family.

Authorities Seek Answers in Teen Murder Case

As the investigation continues, authorities have acknowledged that the motive remains unclear. Officials suggest the attack may have stemmed from a social media dispute during Thanksgiving break. Danika reportedly blocked Blevins and had allegedly insulted Williams. But her mother dismisses that explanation as a weak justification. 'What those boys said is an excuse,' Ashley said.

During a press conference, Santa Rosa County Sheriff's Office said the forensic evidence and the nature of the crime, including the multiple gunshots and deliberate burning, indicate a premeditated and brutal act, far beyond a spur‑of‑the‑moment reaction.

Both individuals are currently held in juvenile detention without the possibility of bond. Authorities are collaborating with the state attorney's office to determine if adult charges should be brought considering the severity of the crime.

For now, the community holds onto hope for answers, accountability and justice, all while grappling with the profound loss of a life taken far too early.

What Happened to Danika Troy?

Danika was last seen leaving her home in Pace, Florida, on the evening of 30 November. She reportedly took off on her electric scooter and did not return. When she failed to show up the next morning, Ashley filed a missing person report.

In a heartbreaking development, her body was found on 2 December by a passerby in a wooded area off Kimberly Road, just outside Pace. Authorities have found the scooter, burnt clothing, and used bullet casings at the location. Authorities have confirmed that the remains belong to Danika, leading to the prompt arrest of two local teenagers, Williams and Blevins. Both face charges of first‑degree premeditated murder and are currently held in juvenile detention.

Law enforcement reports indicate that Williams is accused of taking his mother's handgun and then shooting Danika multiple times. After that, the attackers doused her body in gasoline and set it on fire.

Deputies report that a cooperating witness revealed the intention was to shoot her only once. However, Williams continued to fire before the body was set ablaze.