A grieving family in Houston, Texas, is demanding justice and answers after 15-year-old Jaylah Veal, who was under the care of Texas Child Protective Services (CPS), was found shot dead last weekend. Jaylah was discovered caught in a shootout on West Bartell Drive, though police say she was not the intended target.
Jaylah’s Story and Disappearance
Jaylah’s adoptive mother, Oreena Rivera-Veal, shared the heartbreaking news that homicide detectives informed her of her daughter’s death.
“Then the homicide detectives came and told me my baby had gotten shot,” she said tearfully. “I’m hurt. I’m very hurt.”
Jaylah had been placed in CPS care two years ago because of behavioural concerns. The family says she was moved between several facilities, and last was placed in a group home in Houston.
In March 2025, Jaylah reportedly ran away after kicking down a door at the facility. Despite CPS assuring the family they were searching, Jaylah remained missing until her body was found.
Family’s Call for Accountability
Jaylah’s family expressed strong concerns about the state’s handling of her case and the foster care system.
“The state of Texas has to do better,” said Rivera-Veal. “We didn’t get to see her go to prom or graduate. She was so bright.”
They tried to keep track of Jaylah through social media but say it was not enough, and more action should have been taken by CPS.
CPS Response
In a statement, Texas CPS confirmed Jaylah had a history with the agency and said they made repeated efforts to find her after she went missing.
However, due to privacy laws, CPS did not reveal detailed information about her placements or specific search actions. The agency says it is cooperating with police in the ongoing investigation.
Community Reaction and Need for Change
Jaylah’s tragic death has sparked outrage and renewed calls for better protection of vulnerable youth in foster care.
Advocates demand:
- Stronger safeguards for children in care
- Better monitoring of facilities
- Improved crisis response to prevent children from going missing
Jaylah Veal’s death is a painful reminder of the urgent need to improve foster care and child protective services. Her family’s grief and public concern highlight the importance of accountability and reforms to protect children who are already vulnerable.