Mackenna Kronenberger, a 14-year-old girl of mixed ethnicity, tragically lost her life on July 5, 2017, in Dayton, Ohio. She was an innocent bystander when a dispute between two groups escalated into gunfire outside her home on Morse Avenue. One of the bullets penetrated her bedroom window, striking her in the chest and resulting in her death.
The investigation revealed that Mackenna's half-brother, Jason Tidwell, 19, and his friend, Dylan Angel, 18, were involved in the shooting.
Tidwell was found to have fired the shot that killed Mackenna, while Angel was arrested on suspicion of murder. Both were taken into custody at the scene. Tidwell faced multiple charges, including involuntary manslaughter, felonious assault with a deadly weapon, and tampering with evidence. Angel was charged with murder, discharge of a firearm into a habitation, and tampering with evidence.
The case drew significant attention due to the tragic nature of Mackenna's death and the involvement of her own family member. Tidwell was sentenced to 18 years in prison for his role in the shooting. The incident highlighted the devastating consequences of gun violence and the importance of resolving conflicts without resorting to firearms.
Mackenna was remembered as a joyful and positive person who contributed greatly to her community. Her untimely death left a profound impact on her family, friends, and schoolmates at Carroll High School. The community mourned the loss of a young life cut short by senseless violence.
