In the fall of 2015, a dispute between teenagers in Nashville, Tennessee, escalated to a tragic conclusion, ending the life of 14-year-old Treyonta Burleson. On November 3, 2015, in the courtyard of the J.C. Napier Homes public housing development where she lived, Treyonta was fatally shot. The young girl, an eighth-grader at Two Rivers Middle School, was known for her creative spirit and love for basketball, with aspirations of one day becoming a nurse.
The events leading to the fatal shooting reportedly began with a disagreement among a group of teenage girls. This dispute led to a confrontation with 18-year-old Antwana Smith. It was during this argument that Smith allegedly fired a weapon. Though it was later suggested that Treyonta may not have been the specific target, a bullet struck her. She was rushed to Vanderbilt University Medical Center, where she was pronounced dead.
Following the shooting, Antwana Smith retreated into a nearby apartment but eventually surrendered to police commands and was taken into custody. She was subsequently charged with criminal homicide. In the course of the legal proceedings, it was revealed that the gun used in the shooting had been reported stolen years prior.
Ultimately, Antwana Smith pleaded guilty to a lesser charge of second-degree murder. In January 2017, she was sentenced to 15 years in prison for her role in the death of Treyonta Burleson. The case highlighted the devastating impact of youth violence and brought attention to the issue of illegal firearms within the community.
