In the early hours of October 13, 2023, the life of 17-year-old Damayah Renee Calhoun, a Black/African American female from Topeka, Kansas, was tragically cut short. Known affectionately as "Mighty," Damayah was a senior at the Center for Restorative Education with plans to graduate in the fall. Born on March 31, 2006, in Kansas City, Missouri, she was raised in Topeka where she was known for her hardworking nature and the many friendships she cultivated.
On that Friday morning, just
before 1:30 a.m., Damayah was dropped off at a Topeka hospital with a life-threatening gunshot wound. Despite the efforts of medical personnel, she was pronounced dead shortly after her arrival. The incident is being investigated as a homicide, and authorities have identified a potential crime scene in the 600 block of S.E. Lawrence Street. Her death marked the 29th homicide in Topeka for 2023.
Damayah's death was part of a string of violence that claimed the lives of three teenagers in Topeka in just four days, shaking the community and highlighting a concerning trend of youth violence. As of the latest available information, no arrests have been made in connection with Damayah Calhoun's death. The investigation into the circumstances surrounding her shooting remains ongoing as her family and friends continue to mourn their loss.
