Web Desk
A tragic shooting in Baytown, Texas, has left a 14-year-old girl dead and a 13-year-old boy facing a murder charge.
Authorities say the incident, which took place at a playground within an apartment complex, resulted from a dispute between the two schoolmates.
On March 21, around 4 p.m., police responded to reports of gunfire at a playground in Baytown. Upon arrival, they found 14-year-old Anaya Zachary with multiple gunshot wounds.
She was taken to a nearby hospital, but couldn’t survive. A bystander, who was holding a baby, was also injured but is expected to recover.
According to family members, Anaya was shot four times. “She tried to run, but he shot her twice in the back,” said her cousin, Janet Zachary. “When she fell, he shot her two more times.”
Suspect in Custody
The alleged shooter, a 13-year-old boy, has been taken into custody at the Harris County Juvenile Detention Center. Due to his age, authorities have not released his name. He now faces a murder charge.
School Dispute Turned Deadly
Investigators say the conflict began on the school bus, where Anaya and the boy had an argument.
Anaya’s godmother, Sonya Stanford, told KHOU-TV that the suspect had reportedly threatened her before the shooting.
“He told her, ‘When I get off the bus, I’m going to kill you today,'” she recounted.
Shortly after arriving home, Anaya asked for permission to go outside and see her younger sister. Moments later, the suspect approached her at the playground and opened fire.
Community Demands Answers
The tragedy has left Anaya’s family heartbroken and searching for answers. Her father, Joseph Zachary, expressed his grief, saying, “I don’t understand. They say it was a school issue, but all I know is my child is gone.
Family members are also questioning how the suspect obtained the firearm. “That boy didn’t buy a gun. He didn’t pick it up off the bus,” said Janet Zachary. “For him to go home and get it means he knew where it was.”
Baytown police have not disclosed how the suspect acquired the weapon or whether his parents could face legal consequences.
Police Condemn Violence
Baytown Police Chief John Stringer called the shooting a “senseless act of violence.” In a statement, he urged the community to seek peaceful solutions to conflicts.
“This tragedy reminds us of the severe consequences of violence and the importance of resolving disputes without resorting to deadly force.”
Anaya’s Dreams Cut Short
Those who knew Anaya describe her as a respectful and hardworking student. “She was polite—‘Yes ma’am, no ma’am,’” said her godmother. “She just wanted to focus on her studies, graduate, and have a bright future.”
Anaya had recently moved from Opelousas, Louisiana, in hopes of a better life. Now, her family must send her back in a casket. “It’s devastating,” said Janet Zachary. “Her mother has to bury her child.”
As police continue their investigation, the community mourns a young life lost too soon, hoping for justice and answers.
