Pine Hills, Florida – A 15-year-old boy is in custody after being charged with manslaughter in connection with the fatal shooting of 13-year-old Emony Nicole Jackson on Christmas Day, according to the Orange County Sheriff’s Office (OCSO). Authorities say the incident occurred at approximately 4:45 p.m. on Dec. 25 in Pine Hills, Florida.
The teen suspect approached deputies at the scene, admitting to responsibility for the shooting but claiming it was accidental. Emony was rushed to a hospital by first responders, where she was pronounced dead. Law enforcement has not released additional details about the circumstances leading up to the shooting or the relationship between the two teenagers.
Family Mourns Loss
Emony’s family and community members held a candlelight vigil on Saturday to honor her life. Her aunt, Cynthia Williams, told local NBC affiliate WESH that the family does not believe the shooting was accidental.
“In my eyes, there can never be an accident like that. All we want is justice,” Williams said.
Emony’s cousin, Tremaine Henderson, highlighted the young girl’s resilience, noting that she had already endured the loss of her mother and younger sister in 2017.
“She went through a lot in her life. But the lemons she was given, she made lemonade out of it,” Henderson said.
Young Life Full of Dreams
Family members described Emony as a middle schooler with big aspirations, including becoming a cheerleader and attending high school. Henderson emphasized that the tragic incident cut short the girl’s future milestones, saying,
“She had goals. She would never get to go to prom. She would never get to go to college.”
Ongoing Investigation
The Orange County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that the case is still under active investigation. Details regarding the motive, circumstances of the shooting, and other involved parties have not been disclosed, citing the juvenile status of the suspect and the ongoing nature of the probe.
Law enforcement officials are urging anyone with additional information to contact the sheriff’s office to aid in the investigation.
Community Reaction
The tragic death of Emony Jackson has deeply affected the Pine Hills community, with local residents expressing shock and grief over the young girl’s passing during the holiday season. Authorities emphasize the importance of community cooperation in cases involving juveniles and fatal incidents.
The loss of Emony Nicole Jackson has left her family and community in mourning. How do you think communities can better support youth and prevent accidental shootings? Share your thoughts, condolences, or ideas in the comments below and join the conversation.
