In the autumn of 2020, the life of a young woman from Flint, Michigan, was tragically cut short, leaving a void in the hearts of her loved ones. Eighteen-year-old Mariah Lenea Henderson, a Black female with a bright future, was killed on the evening of Tuesday, October 6, 2020. She was driving her vehicle in the 4900 block of Clio Road, near Myrtle Avenue, after having just left a gas station at approximately 10:30 p.m. when she was struck by gunfire. The promising young woman, who had a passion for learning and a desire to contribute to her community, passed away at Hurley Medical Center. In the wake of this devastating loss, her family discovered that Mariah had been pregnant at the time of her death.
Known for a smile that could illuminate a room, Mariah was remembered by her family as a special and outgoing young woman who had a great deal to look forward to. She had recently graduated from high school and was embarking on the next chapter of her life. Her death sent shockwaves through the Flint community, serving as a painful reminder of the persistent issue of gun violence. Her family, including her grieving grandmother, has been left to grapple with the profound and senseless loss of a cherished daughter and granddaughter who they say had a deep love for her siblings, sports, and cooking.
The investigation into Mariah Henderson's death was launched by the Flint Police Department, who have classified her case as a homicide. Despite the passage of time and ongoing efforts by law enforcement, no arrests have been made in connection with her murder, and no suspects have been publicly identified. Her case remains an open and active investigation. In an effort to bring justice for Mariah, Crime Stoppers of Flint and Genesee County has offered a reward of up to $2,500 for any information that leads to an arrest. Mariah's family continues to hold out hope that someone will come forward with the information needed to solve her case, as they endure the agonizing wait for answers and closure.