Teen Sentenced to 20 Years in Prison for Uncle’s Death in Rock Hill Shooting Incident

A Tragic Incident in Rock Hill: Teen Sentenced for Uncle’s Death

In a heart-wrenching case that has shaken the Rock Hill community, Ka’Marion Janaz Coffey, a 15-year-old boy, has been sentenced to 20 years in prison after pleading guilty to shooting his uncle, Larry Ingram Jr., during a tragic incident that took place last November. The courtroom was filled with emotions as Coffey faced the consequences of his actions that day.

The Incident

On November 14, 2022, Coffey, then just 14 years old, shot his uncle four times in Ingram’s apartment located near Celanese Road and I-77. According to prosecutors, the shooting was not just a one-off act of violence; it involved a surprise attack where Coffey shot Ingram twice while he was standing and then shot him two additional times while he was lying on the floor.

Initially, Coffey was charged as a juvenile with murder and conspiracy, but the legal circumstances changed when prosecutors sought to try him as an adult. After discussions between his legal team and prosecutors, Coffey opted to enter adult court and accepted a plea deal.

A Reckoning in Court

On Thursday, in York County adult criminal court, Judge Bill McKinnon accepted Coffey’s plea to voluntary manslaughter and possession of a weapon during a violent crime. His sentence includes a five-year prison term for the weapon charge, which will run concurrently with the 20 years for manslaughter, provided he meets specific conditions, including testifying against his co-defendants if required.

During the proceedings, it was revealed that Coffey did not live at his uncle’s apartment but had traveled there with a gun taken from another family member. The court also heard about the confusion surrounding the motive for this tragic shooting. Prosecutor Whitney Payne commented that they were still unsure, as initial theories centered on Ingram taking away Instagram privileges and enforcing discipline against noise in the apartment. Payne explained how the situation escalated just moments before the shooting occurred, leaving the courtroom in a somber reflection.

The Other Teens Involved

Coffey was not alone in this incident; he was with three other teenage boys at the time. While they had initially agreed on a story claiming ignorance of what transpired, it quickly became evident to law enforcement that they had all played a role in targeting Ingram. One of the other boys has already accepted a juvenile plea deal and is expected to serve two to four years in a juvenile facility.

The other two co-defendants are still facing charges, which adds layers to this already complicated case. It’s a difficult situation that highlights how these young lives have been impacted by choices that will haunt them now and in the future.

A Community in Shock

The Rock Hill community is now left grappling with the fallout of this tragedy. Families are reminded of the importance of communication and the impact of decisions made in haste. As Coffey prepares to serve his sentence—transitioning to adult prison at age 17—his lawyer Lindsey Vann stated that accepting responsibility for his actions was a crucial step.

This case serves as a heartbreaking example of how quickly lives can change due to violence. As time progresses, it will be a reminder to young people, families, and the broader community of Rock Hill about the lasting consequences of impulsive actions.