On January 15, 2023, 12-year-old Enedy Penaloza Morales tragically lost her life in a shooting at Weston Park in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. Born on November 10, 2010, to parents Fidel Penaloza and Alma Morales, Enedy was known for her joyful spirit, love of dancing, and infectious laughter. She was a sixth-grader at Philo-Hill Magnet Academy and the youngest of five siblings.
The incident occurred around 3:12 p.m.
when a group of approximately 25 to 30 people, ranging from young children to adults in their mid-20s, gathered at Weston Park. A fight broke out among the attendees, during which multiple individuals fired shots. Enedy was struck by a stray bullet and was transported to a local hospital, where she succumbed to her injuries later that evening. A 24-year-old man was also injured in the shooting but survived with non-life-threatening injuries.
In the aftermath of the tragedy, the Winston-Salem Police Department appealed to the public for assistance in identifying those responsible. Captain Amy Gauldin expressed frustration over the lack of cooperation from witnesses, emphasizing the need for community involvement to bring justice for Enedy. Despite these efforts, as of the latest available information, no arrests have been made, and the suspects remain unidentified.
Enedy's death has had a profound impact on her family and the local community. Her sister, Tiffany Morales, recalled the moments leading up to the shooting and the devastating loss that followed. The family has been striving to keep Enedy's memory alive while seeking justice for her untimely death. Community members and activists have called for an end to gun violence, highlighting the increasing frequency of such incidents and their devastating effects on families.
The investigation into Enedy's death remains active, with law enforcement urging anyone with information to come forward. The lack of arrests and unidentified suspects underscores the challenges faced by authorities in solving the case. The community continues to mourn the loss of a vibrant young girl whose life was tragically cut short.
