Jaden Hill, a 13-year-old African American boy from Saint Petersburg, Florida, tragically lost his life on April 12, 2025. The incident occurred shortly after 11 p.m. when Jaden was sitting in a vehicle with 14-year-old Markus Carr at 2421 11th St. S. While recording a video on his cell phone, Jaden captured Carr pointing a gun. In a devastating turn of events, Carr fired the weapon, striking Jaden.
Emergency responders transported Jaden to the hospital, but he ultimately succumbed to his injuries.
Initially, authorities suspected a drive-by shooting, but further investigation revealed that the shooting was not random. Detectives determined that Carr was responsible for firing the fatal shot. Following the investigation, Carr was arrested and charged with second-degree murder. Law enforcement officials are still working to trace the origins of the firearm used in the shooting and to determine whether it was stolen.
Jaden Hill, who was from Largo, Florida, is survived by his mother, Kelly Harris, and his father, Jabarious Hill. He also leaves behind several siblings, including Jabarious Hill Jr., Jay'breon Hill, Demetruis Long, Juliuan Long, Martez Hill, Jada Lewin, Jayla Long, and Liberty King. His passing has left his family and community in mourning, as they struggle to come to terms with the tragic loss of a young life. Authorities continue their investigation into the circumstances surrounding the shooting, seeking further answers about how the firearm came into Carr’s possession.
