Jalea Darea Turner, a 20-year-old woman from Erie, Pennsylvania, tragically lost her life on January 1, 2025. She was attending an invitation-only New Year's Eve party at a residence on West 19th Street in Erie when a confrontation broke out among some of the attendees. Witnesses described the altercation as an "east side versus west side beef," which escalated when one of the individuals involved left the party. Shortly afterward, gunshots were heard outside the residence.
When witnesses went outside, they found Jalea Turner lying on the ground, unresponsive. She had suffered a gunshot wound to the head and was later pronounced dead at UPMC Hamot.
Erie police launched an investigation into the fatal shooting and, through witness interviews and video evidence, identified the suspected shooter as 27-year-old Shakeyah T. Barnes. Authorities allege that Barnes fired at least three gunshots at Turner and another male victim outside the residence. The male victim, who was with Turner at the time of the shooting, sustained a gunshot wound to his leg and was transported to the hospital by private vehicle for treatment. Officers responding to the scene recovered three 9 mm shell casings near the entrance of the residence.
Following their investigation, Erie police charged Barnes with multiple offenses, including criminal homicide, attempted homicide, and aggravated assault. As of the latest reports, Barnes remained at large, and law enforcement officials continued their efforts to locate and apprehend her. Erie police Deputy Chief Rick Lorah commended the swift response of patrol officers in gathering crucial information at the scene, which helped detectives overcome initial obstacles in the investigation. Some witnesses were reportedly reluctant to cooperate, but detectives were ultimately able to piece together the events leading to Turner's death.
Turner, a young African American woman, was remembered by her family and friends as a vibrant individual with a passion for fashion and sports. She worked as a Patient Care Assistant at L’Arche Erie and had graduated from Erie High School. Her sudden passing left a deep impact on her loved ones, who gathered to honor her memory at a Homegoing Celebration held at Victory Christian Cathedral in Erie. The service was officiated by Bishop Dwane Brock, and Turner was laid to rest at Erie Cemetery.
Authorities continued to urge anyone with information regarding Barnes' whereabouts to come forward as they worked to bring justice for Turner and her grieving family.
