Jayla McGee’s family is mourning the 19-year-old after an early-morning shooting in Belle Glade left her dead. The Black transgender woman was killed on July 5, and more than three weeks later, investigators have announced neither a suspect nor a motive. Her loved ones are asking for answers as they grieve a life they say brought joy to everyone around her.
The family and the National Black Justice Collective identified McGee as the victim, according to CBS12 News. In a statement provided to the station, relatives described her as a loving person with a “heart of gold” who deeply cared for her siblings, nieces and nephews. They also remembered McGee as the life of the party, someone who filled family gatherings with laughter and light.
The Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office said deputies responded at about 5:28 a.m. July 5 to the 500 block of Southwest Avenue B, where they found a victim dead from apparent gunshot wounds, according to the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office. The agency has said the suspect remains unknown, and investigators have not publicly identified a possible motive.
Vigil Held As Family Seeks Accountability
A candlelight vigil honoring McGee was held on Saturday, bringing people together to remember her and support those closest to her. The event was noted by the National Black Justice Collective, which has identified McGee among the Black transgender people lost to violence, as reported by CBS12 News.
McGee’s family is urging the sheriff’s office to conduct a thorough investigation and provide accountability. With no arrest announced, the case remains open, and investigators are relying on anyone with information to come forward.
Tips Remain Open In Belle Glade Shooting
Anyone who may know something about the shooting can contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-458-TIPS (8477). The Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office said tips may help investigators determine what happened and identify the person responsible.
