On Christmas Eve of 2019, in the small community of Peterman, just northeast of Monroeville, Alabama, a senseless act of violence tragically cut short the life of 10-month-old Jamaya Asiana Austin. The infant girl was with her family when the vehicle she was in was targeted by gunfire. A bullet struck Jamaya in the face, inflicting a devastating injury.
Rushed from the scene on County Road 42, the baby was first taken to a local hospital before being transferred to USA Hospital in Mobile for more advanced care. Despite the efforts of medical staff, Jamaya succumbed to her injuries two days later, on December 26, 2019. Her death was a profound shock to her family and the quiet community.
The investigation into the shooting quickly led to an arrest. On the same day as the incident, law enforcement took Tamika Stallworth into custody. Stallworth, who was identified as the great-aunt of the young victim, was subsequently charged with murder. Family members indicated that they believed the intended target of the gunfire was the driver of the vehicle, and that Jamaya was an unintended victim of the violent outburst. Stallworth was held on a $750,000 bond.
