The community of Columbia, S.C. is in shock after the tragic death of 13-year-old Ka’Niyah Baker. On Saturday, the Columbia Police Department confirmed that two teenagers have been arrested in connection with her death. Ka’Niyah, from Sumter, was found after a fire at an abandoned home on Cardamon Court, located 20 miles from where she had been reported missing on Monday.
Columbia Police Chief, “Skip” Holbrook, described the crime as “heinous” and “vicious,” revealing that Ka’Niyah had severe burns on her body. “The manner of death was not an accident, and this was not a suicide,” said Richland County Coroner Naida Rutherford. “This is a horrible homicide.” Sadly, Ka’Niyah died from blunt force trauma after being bludgeoned, stabbed, and burned.
The Juvenile Suspects
The two suspects arrested in connection with the case were known to be frequent runaways. According to Holbrook, one of the suspects had an ankle monitor on but removed it before she was apprehended. The suspects are now facing charges, and the Fifth Circuit Solicitor’s office plans to request that they be tried as adults. “We expect to pursue justice in this matter,” said Solicitor Byron Gipson.
Holbrook noted that the lack of parental guidance in many young people’s lives contributes to the “senseless violence” happening in Columbia. “This is gut-wrenching,” he added, reflecting on the disturbing nature of the crime and the troubling reactions from those involved.
A Missing Persons Case with a Tragic Twist
A missing persons flyer for Ka’Niyah was posted on January 16, even though she had already been found dead on January 15. The flyer went out in hopes that she was still alive, despite her body already being discovered. According to Coroner Rutherford, the description of Ka’Niyah initially matched that of other missing girls, which is why the flyer was released.
Despite this, authorities began their search immediately when Ka’Niyah was reported missing. They also confirmed that an Amber Alert was not issued because there was no vehicle connected to her disappearance.
How Ka’Niyah Was Identified
Identifying Ka’Niyah’s body proved challenging due to the severe trauma she suffered. Visual identification wasn’t possible because of the damage to her head, face, and body. To confirm her identity, Coroner Rutherford worked closely with the Richland County Sheriff’s Office, collecting clothing with DNA from Ka’Niyah’s foster home and using her dental records to match her remains.
“We’ve been working tirelessly to find answers for this family,” Rutherford shared, expressing the emotional toll the investigation had on all involved.
Moving Forward
As the investigation continues, Columbia’s community is grappling with the loss of a young life taken too soon. Police are committed to seeking justice for Ka’Niyah, and there is hope that this case will bring about changes for the future.
It’s a heartbreaking reminder of the violence that can occur in a world where too many young lives are lost far too soon.
