Pine Hills, Florida – A 15-year-old boy is in custody after authorities say he walked up to sheriff’s deputies on Christmas Day and admitted he was responsible for the fatal shooting of 13-year-old Emony Nicole Jackson, claiming it was an accident.
According to a press release from the Orange County Sheriff’s Office, deputies were responding to a shooting at a home in the Pine Hills area on December 25 at approximately 4:45 p.m. While deputies were at the scene, the juvenile male allegedly approached them and said he was responsible for the shooting, telling officers that it had been accidental, investigators said.
What Police Have Confirmed So Far
Sheriff’s officials stated that first responders rushed Emony to a nearby hospital following the shooting. Despite lifesaving efforts, she was pronounced dead at the hospital. The 15-year-old, whose name has not been released due to his juvenile status, was taken into custody at the scene.
Authorities later confirmed that the teen has been charged with manslaughter in connection with Emony’s death. Law enforcement has not released information about how the shooting occurred, what type of firearm was involved, or what events led up to the incident.
Police also said they have not disclosed the relationship between the two teenagers, and no additional suspects have been named at this time.
Family Disputes Claim of “Accident”
While investigators continue to examine the case, Emony’s family has publicly questioned the claim that the shooting was accidental.
At a candlelight vigil held Saturday, loved ones gathered to honor the 13-year-old’s life and remember her future dreams. Emony’s aunt, Cynthia Williams, told reporters that the family does not believe the shooting was an accident.
“In my eyes, there can never be an accident like that,” Williams said. “All we want is justice.”
Family members said they are struggling to process another devastating loss after already enduring tragedy in the past.
A Childhood Marked by Loss
Emony’s cousin, Tremaine Henderson, shared that the family had previously mourned the deaths of Emony’s mother and younger sister in 2017, making the Christmas Day killing especially painful.
Henderson described Emony as resilient despite the hardships she had faced.
“She went through a lot in her life,” Henderson said. “But the lemons she was given, she made lemonade out of it.”
Relatives said Emony was known for her positive attitude and determination, even after experiencing profound loss at a young age.
Dreams Cut Short
According to reporting, Emony was a middle school student who had been looking forward to starting high school. Family members said she had aspirations of becoming a cheerleader and was excited about the milestones ahead.
Henderson reflected on what the family believes was stolen from her.
“She had goals,” he said. “She would never get to go to prom. She would never get to go to college.”
Those closest to her say the vigil was not only a way to grieve but also to emphasize that Emony was more than a statistic — she was a child with hopes, plans, and a future.
Investigation Remains Ongoing
The Orange County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that the investigation is still active. Detectives are continuing to gather evidence, interview witnesses, and determine the exact circumstances surrounding the shooting.
Because the suspect is a juvenile, officials said court proceedings and records may remain limited or sealed under Florida law. Authorities have not indicated whether additional charges could be filed as the case develops.
Law enforcement has not provided a timeline for when further details may be released.
Community Impact and Broader Concerns
The shooting has renewed concerns in the Pine Hills community about gun safety, youth access to firearms, and supervision during the holidays. Community advocates say incidents involving children and firearms often have lifelong consequences for families and neighborhoods.
Local leaders are urging parents and guardians to ensure firearms are securely stored, especially when minors are present, to help prevent similar tragedies.
Conclusion
As the investigation continues, Emony Nicole Jackson’s family says their focus remains on honoring her memory and seeking accountability for her death. What began as a Christmas Day celebration ended in irreversible loss, leaving a grieving family and a community searching for answers.
Anyone with information related to the case is encouraged to contact the Orange County Sheriff’s Office.
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