A 16-year-old girl, full of dreams and love, lost her life in a sudden and senseless act of violence in the Bronx, New York. Evette Jeffrey, known by loved ones as “Selena,” was simply riding her scooter through a schoolyard near her home when a bullet struck her. Her death has left her family and community heartbroken and calling for urgent change to stop youth violence.
What Happened to Evette Jeffrey?
On a regular Monday afternoon, Evette was passing through the schoolyard of Bronx Latin Intermediate School in Morrisania when gunfire broke out during a gang-related fight. Though she had nothing to do with the argument, she was caught in the chaos and was shot in the head while trying to hide behind a brick wall.
NYPD said a 14-year-old boy fired three bullets into a crowd of teens. Sadly, one of those bullets hit Evette. The accused shooter has been arrested and faces multiple charges including murder, manslaughter, and attempted murder. Police are also searching for a 13-year-old who they believe gave the gun to the shooter.
A Young Life Filled with Dreams
Evette was a bright and cheerful teenager who had plans to become a medical technician. She was a freshman at Morris High School and loved animals. She had a dog, a cat, and even a turtle. Her bedroom was full of teddy bears and music — a clear reflection of her sweet, youthful personality.
Her grandmother shared fond memories and a photo from Evette’s middle school graduation, saying, “She had so many plans. She was already looking at schools.”
On the day of the tragedy, Evette was walking with her friends and heading home when she was shot. A neighbor rushed to inform her grandmother, who ran to the scene, only to find Evette unresponsive on a stretcher.
A Family Torn Apart
Evette’s mother, Kristen Abad, is devastated by the loss of her only child. She said Evette had gone to the park with her boyfriend to celebrate their anniversary. He was with her during the shooting and held her in his arms, trying to help.
Her aunt, Nereida Abad, shared how their family always tried to show love and support to the children, something they themselves lacked while growing up. “Now I can’t hear her voice anymore. We’ll miss her so much,” she said with sadness.
Community in Shock
Evette’s death has shaken the entire Bronx community. Residents gathered for a candlelight vigil at the schoolyard where she was killed. Friends, family, and neighbors lit candles, said prayers, and demanded action from city leaders.
The Bronx has been dealing with rising violence involving teenagers. So far this year, police data shows 28 young people have been shot and 17 young suspects arrested — all under the age of 18. Although total shootings are down from last year, the age of those involved is becoming more worrying.
What Leaders and Locals Are Saying
Pastor Jay Gooding Sr., who works with the NYPD, said more youth centres, after-school programs, and job training are urgently needed. “These kids are getting into trouble, and some of them are back on the streets the very next day,” he said.
Groups like SOS Bronx are doing their best to support young people with things like GED prep, support groups, and job training. But staff members say they’re overwhelmed and need more help.
A Call for Change
Friends of Evette are now asking city officials to do more. “Maybe if there were more things for kids to do, they wouldn’t be in the streets,” said family friend Jimmy Lopez. “Something more could’ve been done.”
The message from the community is loud and clear: no more young lives should be lost to violence. For Evette’s family and friends, the pain is fresh — and the need for action is urgent.