On August 15, 2020, Donita Elizabeth Henry-Phillips, an 11-year-old girl from San Antonio, Texas, was tragically killed in a drive-by shooting. Donita was a passenger in an SUV with six other children and an adult when their vehicle was shot multiple times by occupants of another vehicle. The shooting occurred around 6 p.m. on Walzem Road, and Donita succumbed to her injuries the following morning at a local hospital.
The incident was described as a senseless crime by San Antonio Police
Chief William McManus, who vowed that the perpetrators would be brought to justice. The motive behind the shooting remains under investigation, but authorities believe it was random. Another victim, a 35-year-old woman, was also injured in the incident and was in critical but stable condition.
In the aftermath of the shooting, the community came together to mourn Donita's loss. Vigils were held, and her family and friends gathered to remember the young girl who was described as sweet, lovely, and vivacious. Donita was a cheerleader with the Judson Youth Football Association's Venom organization, and her death deeply affected her school and community.
On January 4, 2021, D'Morea Keys, a 22-year-old man, was arrested and charged with capital murder in connection with Donita's death. Police identified Keys as the driver of the vehicle involved in the shooting, and video footage helped link him to the crime. Keys' bond was set at $500,000, and the investigation is ongoing with the expectation of more charges.
The case has drawn significant attention, and authorities continue to work diligently to ensure justice for Donita and her family. The community remains hopeful that the responsible parties will be held accountable for their actions.
