Police arrest 19-year-old in Conway shooting that killed Loris teen

CONWAY, S.C. (WMBF) - Conway police confirmed they have arrested a man in connection with a shooting that took the life of a Loris teen earlier this week.

The Conway Police Department said 19-year-old Derrick Que’shawn Ashley, of Conway, was arrested on Wednesday and is charged with murder.

He’s being held at the J. Reuben Long Detention Center without bond.

On Friday, Chief Deputy Coroner Tamara Willard confirmed 18-year-old Ja’Niya Richburg died in her boyfriend’s home in the 1700 block of Horry Street when a bullet went through a window.

Horry County Schools confirmed Richburg was a senior at Loris High School.

The district stated that she was known for her “vibrant personality, as well as her outstanding achievements in both academics and athletics.”

“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 district said in an email.

WMBF News spoke with people about Richburg, and everyone we spoke with said she was an incredible young woman.

Cournea Janiya, who identified herself as Richburg’s best friend, sent us a statement about the tragic loss:

“Our hearts is very heavy right now. To know her was to LOVE her. Her bright smile, her kindness, her presence in general would light the whole room up. She definitely was a BEAST in basketball & she had so much potential in her! Janiya definitely loved everybody who loved her!

According to the Loris Lions Athletics Facebook page, Richburg was an all-star athlete. She was not only recognized by Loris High School but also across the state.

In March, she was recognized as a 3-A All-State recipient by the South Carolina Basketball Coaches Association and was a three-time Region Player of the Year.

Not only did Richburg excel in basketball, but she was also on Loris High School’s track team.

Meanwhile, the shooting remains under investigation by the Conway Police Department.

Anyone with information is asked to call the Conway Police Department at 843-248-1790.

Stay with WMBF News for updates.

Editor’s note: The Horry County Coroner’s Office originally stated that Richburg died in her home on Horry Street. Officials later clarified that the home Richburg died in was her boyfriend’s, as she lived in Loris.