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Richland County, S.C. (BFMG) — The brutal murder of 13-year-old Ka’Niyah Baker has sent shockwaves through the Columbia, South Carolina community. Found in an abandoned home after a fire, Ka’Niyah’s life was tragically cut short in what authorities have described as a “brutal, heinous, and gruesome” crime. The investigation has led to the arrest of two teenage girls, ages 15 and 16, who now face murder charges.
Timeline of Events
As reported by FITSNews, Ka’Niyah Baker was reported missing on January 13, 2025, after last being seen near Aubernleaf Drive in Hopkins, South Carolina. Despite urgent appeals from authorities, her whereabouts remained unknown until firefighters responded to a structure fire on January 15 in an abandoned house on the 100 block of Cardamon Court in Columbia. Inside, they discovered Ka’Niyah’s burned body.
Investigation and Arrests
Richland County Coroner Naida Rutherford confirmed that Ka’Niyah’s death resulted from blunt force trauma, as well as stabbing and burning. “This is not an accident or suicide,” Rutherford stated, emphasizing the violent nature of the crime.
Columbia Police Chief Skip Holbrook announced during a press conference that two teenage girls were arrested in connection with Ka’Niyah’s murder. Both suspects had histories of running away and had been reported missing themselves. One of the suspects, the 16-year-old, was reported missing January 12, hadn’t attended school since January 2024, and was previously wanted by the Department of Juvenile Justice for removing an ankle monitor. The 15-year-old suspect was last enrolled in high school in December 2024 and is also a reported runaway according to CrimeOnline.
Victim Background
Ka’Niyah Baker, originally from Sumter, South Carolina, was living in foster care in Columbia at the time of her death. Both suspects, aged 15 and 16, were dropouts with troubled histories, highlighting systemic issues in addressing at-risk youth. Fifth Circuit Solicitor Byron Gipson announced plans to petition family court to try the suspects as adults, a decision underscored by the severity of the crime
A Path Forward
A memorial for Ka’Niyah has been set up outside the abandoned home where she was found, as the community grapples with her loss. Meanwhile, discussions among city officials continue, focusing on addressing gaps in foster care systems and community safety. Mayor Rickenmann has reiterated the importance of investing in Columbia’s Office of Violence Prevention to tackle the root causes of youth violence.
The Columbia Police Department is urging anyone with additional information about the case to come forward.
