13-year-old last seen on Monday found dead after fire at unoccupied home, says coroner’s office

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RICHLAND COUNTY, S.C. (WOLO)– The Richland County Coroner’s Office has identified 13-year-old Ka’Niyah Baker as the victim who was found dead inside an unoccupied Cardamon Court home.

The teen’s body was found on Wednesday night, shortly before 11:30 p.m. when the Columbia-Richland Fire Department responded to a small structure fire in the 100 block of Cardamom Court.

When firefighters entered the home, they found a deceased person who was identified as the teen.

Richland County Sheriff’s Department announced on Thursday, Jan. 16, that Baker was missing, and last seen on Monday, Jan. Monday.

Columbia Police Department said investigators and working on leads in connection to Baker’s death.

“Any death is heartbreaking but it’s even more challenging to understand when it is a child. Our thoughts and prayers are with her family and friends. Our team will continue to collaborate with law enforcement as we continue to investigate this homicide,” Coroner Rutherford states.

Reach out to CPD’s Criminal Investigations Unit at 803-545-3518 with information about the case.

READ MORE: Columbia Police investigating suspicious Cardamom Court death

Original Story (Posted: Jan. 16, 2025):

The sheriff’s department says 13-year-old Ka’Niyah Baker was last seen on Aubernleaf Drive in Hopkins on Monday, January 13. (Photo: Richland County Sheriff’s Department)

RICHLAND COUNTY, S.C. (WOLO)– Richland County deputies need help finding a missing 13-year-old, said RCSD.

The sheriff’s department says 13-year-old Ka’Niyah Baker was last seen on Aubernleaf Drive in Hopkins on Monday, January 13.

Ka’Niyah is 5’1″ tall and weighs around 100 lbs.

She was last seen with red extensions in her hair, and is believed to be in danger.

If you have seen the 13-year-old or have any information on where she could be, call 9-1-1 or Richland County Sheriff’s Department at 803-576-3000.