Daniyjah Dupree Staples, an 18-year-old from Urbana, Illinois, passed away on July 28, 2024. Her death was a result of gun violence, which occurred in Champaign, Illinois. Along with Daniyjah, another 18-year-old, George Dorris-Rodgers, also lost his life in the same incident.
Daniyjah was born on April 28, 2006, to parents Fineez Muhammad and Dupree Staple. She was a vibrant and accomplished individual who left a profound impact on those around her. Her academic journey began at Stratton Elementary School, continued at Franklin Middle School Stem Academy, and culminated at Centennial High School, where she was an active member of the Varsity Cheerleading team. She had recently graduated from Centennial High School on May 28, 2024, and was planning to pursue a nursing career at Texas State University.
Daniyjah was known for her infectious laughter, boundless energy, and her gift for uplifting everyone she met. She was deeply involved in her community, particularly at Bethel AME Church, and had a passion for dance, cheerleading, and art. She was celebrated as The Fine Arts Student of the Month for April 2024 and was renowned for her videos showcasing her dance skills.
She is survived by her parents, Fineez Muhammad and Dupree Staple; her siblings, Jaineez Maynor, De'Ajia Staple, De'Zyire Staple, Javionte'Maynor, Kenyada Lane, and Dajuan Lane; and her grandmothers, Rosalind Biggers and Vivian Caraway. She is also remembered by aunts, uncles, cousins, and special friends. Daniyjah was preceded in death by her grandfathers, George Murry and Edward Jerome Lane, her great-grandparents, Johnnie B. Wilkerson Sr., Alma Lee Wilkerson, Robert and Abella Kinney, and her aunt Brittany R. Lane.
A celebration of life for Daniyjah was held at The Vineyard Church in Urbana, Illinois, with visitation beginning at 10:00 AM and the service commencing at 12:00 Noon on Friday, August 9, 2024. The burial followed at Woodlawn Lincoln Cemetery.
As of the current date, there is no information available indicating any arrests or trials related to Daniyjah's death, suggesting that the case may still be under investigation or unsolved.
