A 27-year-old woman from Sumter, South Carolina, died following a shooting during the early morning hours of May 9, 2026. Arieyelle Shiquise Zichole Coulette was transported to Prisma Health Tuomey Hospital by private vehicle after sustaining gunshot wounds.
Medical staff attempted to save her, but she was pronounced dead. Police had initially responded to a shots‑fired call at 2:14 a.m. on Carolina Avenue, where they found a residence damaged by gunfire. Minutes later, authorities learned that a woman had arrived at the hospital with critical injuries.
Two men have been arrested and charged with murder in connection with the incident. Elijah Handy, 19, of Bishopville, and Dorein Antwon Vereen-Price, 28, were both booked at the Sumter County Detention Center.
Additional charges remain pending. Investigators have not disclosed whether the suspects knew Coulette or what motivated the shooting. The Sumter Police Department continues to gather evidence and interview witnesses.
Family members describe her as a loving presence who brought joy to those around her. Her obituary notes that she was cherished by many and leaves behind a reputation for kindness and warmth. No information about her occupation or survivors has been publicly released.
The funeral has been scheduled via Whites Mortuary, with a public viewing scheduled for Friday, May 15, 2026, from 4 to 7 p.m. at 517 N. Guignard Drive in Sumter, and a ceremony scheduled for Saturday, May 16, 2026, at 1 p.m. at Jehovah Missionary Baptist Church on Manning Avenue. On Friday, May 15, 2026, from 4 to 7 p.m., there will be a public viewing at 517 N. Guignard Drive in Sumter. The Jehovah Missionary Baptist Church on Manning Avenue will have a service on Saturday, May 16, 2026, at 1:00 p.m.
Burial will be held at Congruity Presbyterian Church Cemetery on Congruity Road in Gable, South Carolina. The family will receive friends at 3855 Cannery Road in Dalzell from 3 p.m. until 9 p.m. on the days leading up to the funeral.