Goldsboro – A 13-year-old girl was shot and killed while walking home with her older sister after three teen boys allegedly jumped out of bushes and opened fire in a residential neighborhood, according to police. The victim’s sister says she cradled the child during her final moments, describing the scene as terrifying and unforgettable.
What police say happened
Authorities say the shooting occurred Sunday evening in the 200 block of Alpha Court. The sisters were walking with friends to get food and were headed back home when they were ambushed by three teens they did not know. Investigators allege the suspects—one 15-year-old and two 16-year-olds—emerged from nearby bushes and began shooting without warning.
The 13-year-old victim, Jaleeyah Tune, was struck by gunfire and pronounced dead at the scene. Police have not released a motive and say the investigation is ongoing.
Sister describes “last moments”
Jaleeyah’s 14-year-old sister, J’Sheeyah Tune, told local media that she held her sister as she was dying.
“There was blood all on my hands,” J’Sheeyah said in an interview with WTVD. “She looked so scared. I was scared myself.”
J’Sheeyah added that she did not want to wipe the blood away, saying she could still feel her sister’s presence. “I held her in her last moments,” she said. “I felt her still with me.”
Community shaken by violence
Neighbors described a heavy police presence after the shooting and a neighborhood in shock. Jeffery Rudolph, who lives nearby, said he saw the aftermath and tried to comfort the family.
“I saw her laying over there under the sheet,” Rudolph said. “I was consoling the family and showing support with them. It was kind of rough.”
Residents say the shooting has left families fearful and searching for answers in a normally quiet area.
Arrests and charges
Police say all three teen suspects have been arrested. They face first-degree murder and felony conspiracy charges. One suspect appeared in court Monday; the other two are scheduled to appear later this week, authorities said.
Because the suspects are minors, additional details about their identities have not been released.
A family’s grief
For J’Sheeyah, the loss is overwhelming. “She didn’t deserve this at all,” she said. “People are very cruel. Now, I have to live on without my sister.”
Family members and community leaders are calling for prayers and support as they mourn a child whose life was cut short.
Ongoing investigation
Police continue to collect evidence and interview witnesses. Anyone with information is urged to contact investigators. Officials have not said whether the shooting was targeted or random.
As the case moves through the courts, the community is left grappling with the impact of gun violence on young lives.
Conclusion
A routine walk home turned into a deadly ambush that claimed the life of a 13-year-old girl and forever changed her family. With three teens now charged, authorities say their focus is on accountability, while loved ones focus on remembering Jaleeyah and supporting her grieving sister.
If you live in the area and have information that could help investigators, contact local police. Share your experiences in the comments below.
