On July 5, 2020, Felicity Coleman, a 34-year-old woman from Boston, Massachusetts, tragically lost her life in a senseless act of violence. The incident occurred in the Dorchester neighborhood of Boston, where Coleman was watching a street fireworks show with her neighbors early Sunday morning.
According to the Suffolk district attorney's office, Coleman was struck by a bullet that was not intended for her.
The shooter, identified as Kristian Maraj, 22, was involved in a dispute with another individual earlier that evening. Maraj left the area but returned a short time later and began firing into the crowd, resulting in Coleman being hit by a stray bullet. Coleman, who was not involved in the earlier dispute, became an unintended victim of this violent act.
Kristian Maraj was promptly identified and arrested by the Boston Police Department, thanks in part to the quick and courageous actions of the community who stepped forward to provide information. At his arraignment, Maraj pleaded not guilty to charges of murder and firearms offenses and was held without bail. His attorney was not available for comment at the time.
The death of Felicity Coleman was one of seven homicides reported in Boston during that week, contributing to a total of 26 homicides in the city by July 5, 2020, which was higher than the 21 homicides recorded by the same date in 2019. Coleman's death had a profound impact on her family and community, particularly her son, Michael, whom she had dedicated her life to caring for and providing the best possible life.
The community came together to support Coleman's family, acknowledging her legacy as a loving mother who worked hard to ensure her son's well-being. A GoFundMe campaign was set up to help with funeral expenses and to support her family during this difficult time, reflecting the community's appreciation for her and their commitment to ensuring justice was served.
