Teen charged with murder after woman’s body found in Columbia, SC police say
Days after a woman’s body was found in South Carolina a teenager was arrested on multiple charges, including murder, according to the Columbia Police Department.
In addition to murder, Lee’Sean Emmanuel Davis also was charged with possession of a weapon during a violent crime and possession of a firearm by a person prohibited, police said in a Wednesday night news release. The 19-year-old faces resisting arrest and failure to stop charges from his Wednesday arrest as well, according to jail records.
The charges are connected to the death of 31-year-old Hopkins resident Ciarra Howcott, who was found Monday in the 2700 block of Howell Court, Richland County Coroner Naida Rutherford said. That’s near Farrow Road and the Prisma Health Richland medical complex.
Howcott died as a result of a getting shot in the upper body, police said.
Information about a motive for the shooting was not available, and there was no word if Howcott and Davis knew each other prior to the gunfire.
No other injuries were reported.
“Our thoughts remain with the family of 31-year-old Ciara Howcott during this incredibly difficult time,” police said in the release. “We remain committed to seeking justice and ensuring accountability in our community.”
Despite Davis’ arrest, police said anyone with information related to the shooting is asked to call CrimeStoppers at 1-888-CRIME-SC, or submit an online tip.
In the case of an emergency, always call 911.
“Your information can make a difference,” police said.
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This story was originally published April 16, 2026 at 7:57 AM with the headline "Teen charged with murder after woman’s body found in Columbia, SC police say."
