The New York City Police Department has released the identity of the teenage girl tragically killed in a shooting that unfolded in a schoolyard in the Morrisania section of The Bronx.
The victim has been identified as 16-year-old Evette Jeffrey, a bright and spirited young woman from The Bronx whose life was cut short in a devastating act of gun violence that has sent shockwaves through the community.
According to Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch, the shooting occurred around 5 p.m. as a group of students were exiting Bronx Latin High School, located near East 169th Street and Boston Road. What began as a fight among students quickly escalated into chaos, ending in the senseless and heartbreaking loss of a young life.
Preliminary reports indicate that the altercation involved multiple teenagers and took place in the schoolyard area just moments after classes had dismissed. While details are still emerging, police believe the fight was not random but may have involved individuals who knew each other. At some point during the confrontation, gunfire rang out, striking Evette Jeffrey in the torso.
First responders arrived quickly and rendered aid at the scene before rushing the 16-year-old to Lincoln Hospital, where she was later pronounced dead. No other students were reported injured during the incident.
“This is every parent’s worst nightmare,” said Commissioner Tisch during a press briefing. “A child who went to school in the morning never came home. It is unacceptable. It is heartbreaking. And we will do everything in our power to bring those responsible to justice.”
As of now, no arrests have been made, but investigators are actively pursuing leads. Surveillance footage from nearby buildings and witness statements are being reviewed by the NYPD to identify those involved in the fight and determine who pulled the trigger. The gun used in the shooting has not yet been recovered.
Authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward, and Crime Stoppers is offering a reward for tips that lead to an arrest and conviction. The community’s cooperation is vital, police say, in ensuring that justice is served and that such an act does not go unpunished.
Evette Jeffrey was described by friends and family as a smart, kind-hearted teen with dreams for her future. She was a student with ambitions, a loving daughter, and a loyal friend. Her sudden death has left her family reeling and the school community in mourning.
“She was so full of life,” said one of her classmates. “She was always smiling, always there for people. I can’t believe she’s gone.”
Grief counselors have been made available at Bronx Latin High School to support students and staff as they process the trauma and loss. A makeshift memorial of candles, flowers, and handwritten messages has already begun to grow outside the school gates, where classmates and neighbors have gathered to pay their respects.
