LEXINGTON COUNTY, South Carolina — The community is mourning the tragic loss of 18-year-old Ke’Mari Samar’Trey Ford, who was fatally shot on April 4, 2026, outside an apartment complex in Columbia.
According to the Lexington County Coroner’s Office, Ford was pronounced dead at the scene shortly before 1:00 p.m. after suffering multiple gunshot wounds to the upper body.
Authorities say the shooting occurred in the 3500 block of Fernandina Road. The Lexington County Sheriff’s Department is actively investigating the circumstances surrounding the incident, alongside the Coroner’s Office. At this time, no additional details have been released.
Ford’s sudden and violent death has left family, friends, and the wider community in shock. He is remembered as a young man full of promise, whose life was tragically cut short.
As the investigation continues, the Lexington County community stands together in grief, offering condolences and support to all who knew and loved him during this incredibly difficult time.
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