Jazmine De’nea "Jazzy Fay" Barnes, a 7-year-old African American girl, tragically lost her life on December 30, 2018, in Houston, Texas. She was fatally shot while riding in a car with her mother, LaPorsha Washington, and three siblings. The incident occurred in northeastern Harris County when a man in a red or maroon pickup truck pulled alongside their vehicle and opened fire.
Jazmine was killed at the scene, and her mother was shot in the arm, while her 6-year-old sister was injured by shattered glass.
The case quickly gained national attention, and a massive search for the suspects ensued. Within days, Eric Black Jr., 20, and Larry Woodruffe, 24, were arrested and charged with capital murder. Authorities alleged that Black and Woodruffe were attempting to retaliate against someone they had an argument with and mistakenly targeted the wrong vehicle. Black, who was driving the pickup truck, pleaded guilty to murder and agreed to testify against Woodruffe. Woodruffe was found guilty of capital murder and sentenced to life in prison without parole.
The community's response to Jazmine's death was profound. A public funeral was held at Community of Faith Church in Houston, attended by thousands, including civic leaders and celebrities. Jazmine's family, friends, and the community remembered her as a bright and beloved child whose life was cut short by senseless violence.
The tragic death of Jazmine De’nea "Jazzy Fay" Barnes serves as a heartbreaking reminder of the impact of gun violence and the importance of community support in seeking justice for victims and their families.
