The community of Lexington County, South Carolina is mourning the death of Ke’Mari Samar’Trey Ford, who was fatally shot on April 4, 2026, in Columbia. His death and obituary details have left residents in shock as authorities work to piece together what led to the violent incident.
The shooting occurred in the 3500 block of Fernandina Road, near several apartment complexes, where what should have been a normal afternoon was interrupted by gunfire. Deputies responded shortly after reports of a shooting and arrived to find the 18-year-old suffering from critical injuries. Despite emergency response efforts, Ke’Mari Ford died at the scene, with Lexington County Coroner Margaret Fisher later confirming that the cause of death was multiple gunshot wounds to the upper body.
The case has prompted a full-scale response from the Lexington County Sheriff’s Department, with investigators actively working to determine the circumstances surrounding the shooting. The broad daylight nature of the incident has added to community concern, raising questions about safety and what may have led to the fatal encounter.
As the investigation continues, the death of Ke’Mari Samar’Trey Ford has left a deep impact on the Columbia and Lexington County community. Family members, friends, and residents are left grappling with the loss of a young life, while authorities push forward in seeking answers and accountability in the case.