Deputies Say Classmates Shot and Set Fire to Missing 14-Year-Old Reported as a Runaway

Authorities in Florida are investigating the death of 14-year-old Danika Jade Troy, who was initially reported missing by her mother on Sunday night. The girls body was later discovered shot and burned in a wooded area.

Two teenage boys, ages 16 and 14, were taken into custody on Thursday, December 4, and charged with first-degree premeditated murder, according to Santa Rosa County Sheriff Bob Johnson. The suspects, who are minors, may face adult charges.

Danikas mother reported her missing from Pace, near the Alabama border, on Monday, December 1. Sheriff Johnson revealed that Danika had been killed the night before she was reported missing. Investigators said the girl had been riding her electric scooter when the two boys allegedly lured her into the woods.

The 16-year-old allegedly took his mothers gun and shot Danika multiple times, then set her on fire, Johnson said during a press briefing. Authorities are still working to determine the motive, noting that the teens were reportedly classmates and friends of the victim.

The girls burned and bullet-ridden body was discovered on Tuesday, December 2, by a passerby who contacted emergency services. Detectives quickly focused on the two boys based on the evidence collected at the scene.

Both suspects are currently held by the Department of Juvenile Justice. Details regarding their legal representation remain unclear. A GoFundMe set up to assist the Troy family with funeral expenses has raised over $5,500 as of Friday morning.

Author: Gavin Porter