In the late hours of November 18, 2014, in Savannah, Georgia, two-year-old Kiaja 'Kiki' Smalls was asleep on a sofa in her family's apartment at Hampstead Oaks. The quiet of the night was shattered when two individuals outside fired approximately 18 rounds into the residence. Tragically, Kiaja was struck by the gunfire and her life was cut short. First responders and investigators arrived at a scene that would be described as both chaotic and heartbreaking.
Investigators quickly
determined that the shooting was not a random act of violence; they believe the apartment was specifically targeted. Despite this, it was clear that the young child was not the intended victim. The community was shaken by the senseless death of a toddler, described by her godmother as a happy and feisty baby who was full of life. In the days that followed, family and friends mourned the loss of the little girl who loved to have her nails polished and was known for wanting to hug and kiss everyone. A celebration of life service was held for her on November 26, 2014, before she was laid to rest.
The investigation into Kiaja's murder has been met with significant challenges, primarily a lack of forthcoming information. For years, authorities have pleaded with the public for any information that might lead to a breakthrough in the case. The case remains unsolved, and no arrests have ever been made in connection with her death. The profound impact of that night rippled through the family for years to come. In 2018, Kiaja's cousin, Shy'Ree Smalls, who was present and witnessed her death as a teenager, was himself shot and killed at the age of 17. While an arrest was made in his case, the perpetrators responsible for Kiaja's death remain at large. Authorities continue to seek justice for the two-year-old girl, with a cash reward offered for information that could finally lead to an arrest.
