MIAMI (WSVN) - A South Florida community is calling for change, days after gun violence took the life of a young girl.
A news conference was held in Miami’s Liberty City neighborhood, Thursday. Dozens of people stood near a memorial on the sidewalk where 4-year-old Nyla Jones was killed, last Saturday.
Parents who have lost their children to gun violence also stood in solidarity with Nyla’s family.
“Losing my child, my life is never and will never be the same,” said community activist Tangela Sears, “and I don’t want no one to feel and go through and wake up and go through what I go through every single day.”
“When you hear more news of another innocent, precious kid — beautiful smile, full of life — just life cut so short so senselessly, it just brings you in a rage,” said Santonio Carter, whose child was also fatally shot.
The group said their goal is to send a message to end gun violence and stop the senseless killings that are taking away young lives.
“Everyone is looking for a second chance with these offenders. We can’t change killers, and killers need to be in jail,” said Sears. “Those with guns that shoot — there’s a law in place. I’m not here to address where the mother stands on forgiveness, because I’m a grieving mother, and one day, I have to get there as well.”
City of Miami Police officers also rode their bikes to the location where Nyla was killed, near Northwest 65th Street and 13th Court, paying their respects and saying a prayer.
According to police, Nyla was fatally shot by her uncle, 24-year-old Ronald Jones, after an argument with her mother escalated. He has been arrested and faces several charges, including second-degree murder.
Nyla’s family said there will be a viewing for her at the Richardson Funeral Home in Miami, Saturday, beginning at 2 p.m.
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