Arieyelle Shiquise Zichole Coulette, 27, of Sumter, South Carolina, was fatally wounded in a shooting on Carolina Avenue in the early morning hours of May 9, 2026. She was taken to Prisma Health Tuomey Hospital by private vehicle, where she later died. Two men have been charged with murder in connection with the incident.
Coulette was born on January 29, 1999, in Sumter. She grew up in the Sumter community and was remembered by family and friends as a loving soul whose presence brought joy to those around her. Her obituary notes that she was cherished by many and leaves behind a legacy of kindness and warmth.
Authorities reported that officers first responded to a shots‑fired call at 2:14 a.m. on Carolina Avenue, where a home had been struck by gunfire. Minutes later, they were notified that a woman had been brought to the hospital with gunshot wounds. Despite medical efforts, Coulette was pronounced deceased. The Sumter Police Department confirmed that two suspects were arrested and charged with murder.
A Bishopville resident Elijah Handy, 19, and Dorein Antwon Vereen-Price, 28, were both arrested at the Sumter County Detention Center on murder charges. There are still pending charges.
Funeral arrangements have been set by Whites Mortuary. A public viewing will take place on Friday, May 15, 2026, from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Whites Mortuary, located at 517 N. Guignard Drive in Sumter. Funeral services will follow on Saturday, May 16, 2026, at 1 p.m. at Jehovah Missionary Baptist Church, 609 Manning Avenue, Sumter. Interment will be held at Congruity Presbyterian Church Cemetery, 3750 Congruity Road, Gable, SC.
The family has announced that they will receive friends at 3855 Cannery Road, Dalzell, SC, from 3 p.m. until 9 p.m. in the days leading up to the funeral. Community members have already begun offering condolences and support, with tributes appearing across local platforms and memorial sites.
Coulette’s death has been memorialized on the National Gun Violence Memorial, where more than 150 candles have been lit in her honor. Friends and community members have described her as a vibrant young woman whose life was cut short by senseless violence. Her passing has left a deep void in Sumter, where she is remembered for her compassion, her spirit, and the love she shared with family and friends.
