by Goldsboro, North Carolina — A quiet walk home turned into an unthinkable tragedy just days before Christmas, when a 13-year-old girl was shot and killed in Goldsboro, leaving a family devastated and a community searching for answers as police announced multiple arrests.
Authorities say the shooting occurred around 4:30 p.m. on Sunday, December 21, cutting short the life of Jaleeyah Tune, a middle school student described by loved ones as resilient, joyful, and full of promise.
Shooting Happened During Walk Home
According to local reports citing police, Jaleeyah was walking home with her sister when the violence unfolded. Her sister, J’Sheeyah Tune, told reporters that a group of boys they did not know suddenly opened fire from behind a bush.
“I held her in her last moments,” J’Sheeyah said. “She didn’t deserve this at all. People are very cruel. Now, I have to live on without my sister.”
Police confirmed that Jaleeyah was pronounced dead at the scene, despite emergency response efforts. Investigators immediately launched a homicide investigation, canvassing the area and speaking with witnesses.
Three Teenage Suspects Arrested
In the days following the shooting, police announced the arrests of three teenage boys in connection with Jaleeyah’s death. Authorities said two 16-year-old boys and one 15-year-old boy have been charged with first-degree murder and felony conspiracy.
The suspects’ names have not been released due to their ages. According to reports, they are being held at the Pitt Juvenile Detention Center in Greenville as the case moves through the juvenile justice system.
Police have not publicly detailed a motive for the shooting, nor explained why the suspects allegedly targeted Jaleeyah. Investigators have also not indicated whether the victim was known to the suspects prior to the attack.
Community Grapples With Loss
The killing of a young teen just days before Christmas has shaken Goldsboro residents and raised renewed concerns about youth violence. Family members say Jaleeyah was simply in the wrong place at the wrong time.
Loved ones described the shooting as sudden and senseless, emphasizing that Jaleeyah and her sister were not involved in any conflict and did not recognize the group involved.
Local leaders and community members have expressed grief and outrage, calling for accountability and stronger efforts to prevent violent crime involving minors.
Remembered as a Fighter and a Light
In a GoFundMe campaign created to help cover memorial expenses, Jaleeyah’s family shared details of her life and the strength she showed from the very beginning.
The fundraiser describes Jaleeyah as a “fighter from the very beginning,” noting she was born prematurely, weighing just 2 pounds. She spent her earliest days in the hospital before finally being able to come home on Christmas Eve, a moment her family described as a miracle.
“She continued to show incredible strength and resilience throughout her life,” the campaign reads. “Jaleeyah was known for her infectious laughter and her ability to bring joy to everyone around her, no matter what challenges she faced.”
Family members say that spirit never faded, and that Jaleeyah’s presence brought light into every room she entered.
Support Grows for Grieving Family
As of December 25, the GoFundMe campaign had raised nearly $12,000, with donations continuing to come in from friends, neighbors, and strangers moved by Jaleeyah’s story.
The funds are intended to help with memorial and funeral expenses, easing some of the financial burden on the family as they navigate overwhelming grief.
Messages left by donors reflect a shared sense of heartbreak and anger, with many calling for justice and change to prevent similar tragedies.
Investigation Continues
Police say the investigation remains active as prosecutors prepare to move forward with the case against the three juveniles. Authorities have not released additional details about the weapon used or how it was obtained.
While the arrests bring a measure of accountability, Jaleeyah’s family says nothing can undo the loss they are living with every day.
Her sister’s words capture the pain left behind — a reminder that behind every statistic is a family forever changed.
What steps do you think communities can take to better protect children and prevent youth violence? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
