Kera Laneigh Teel, a 19-year-old woman from Beaumont, Texas, tragically lost her life on June 6, 2017. She was seven months pregnant at the time of her death, and her daughter, Kyndal Jae Teel, was born but passed away shortly after. Kera was born on March 10, 1998, to Mindy Chambliss Morris and Justin Morris. She is survived by her husband, Andrew Teel, and her daughter, Alaya Teel.
The incident occurred in the parking lot of the Sienna Trails Apartments in Beaumont.
Kera was shot by Corey Spencer, a 14-year-old at the time, during an attempted robbery. Spencer, along with two other accomplices, Dustin Bernard and Johnny Phifer, were involved in a series of car burglaries and robberies that summer. Spencer admitted to pulling the trigger, claiming he was scared and nervous during the incident.
In the aftermath of the shooting, Corey Spencer was sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole for 30 years. Dustin Bernard, who was 21 at the time, received a 50-year sentence for his involvement in the robbery and shooting. Johnny Phifer, who was 15 at the time, has not yet gone to trial.
The tragic loss of Kera Teel and her unborn child has deeply affected her family and the community. Her mother, Mindy Morris, expressed her grief and anger during the sentencing, stating that Kera was her best friend and that her life was taken away. The family continues to seek justice and closure for the senseless act that took Kera's life.
The case has drawn significant attention and has been a focal point for discussions on juvenile crime and the justice system's handling of young offenders. The community has rallied around Kera's family, offering support and condolences during this difficult time.
