A 13‑year‑old girl was shot and killed Sunday afternoon in a residential neighborhood in Goldsboro, police confirmed, and three teenage suspects are now in custody facing murder charges.
Goldsboro police responded to reports of gunfire just after 4:30 p.m. on December 21 in the 200 block of Alpha Court, a residential area that includes the Alpha Court/Alpha Arms apartment complex. Officers arriving at the scene found the young victim suffering from a gunshot wound. Emergency responders from Wayne County EMS pronounced her dead at the location.
Family members and community posts on social media identified the girl as Jaleeyah Tune, known affectionately as “Lee Lee.” Tributes from relatives and friends have since been shared online.
Authorities say the investigation into the shooting remained active Monday, with police and detectives continuing to gather evidence and interview witnesses. Officials have not disclosed a known motive or the circumstances that led to the shooting.
Suspects Arrested
On December 22, Goldsboro police announced the arrest of three juvenile suspects in connection with the homicide. The suspects — two 16‑year‑old boys and one 15‑year‑old boy, all from Goldsboro — were taken into custody without incident.
All three juveniles have been charged with first‑degree murder and felony conspiracy. They were transported to the Pitt Regional Juvenile Detention Center in Greenville, where they remain held pending their first court appearances.
Police described the charges as part of an ongoing investigation and said additional details will be released as appropriate. Law enforcement officials did not provide information on whether any weapons used in the shooting have been recovered or whether charges against adults are being considered.
Community Reaction
The deadly shooting, which occurred just days before Christmas, has shocked the local community. Residents and social media commenters expressed grief and frustration, calling for heightened awareness and action on juvenile violence and public safety in Goldsboro’s neighborhoods.
Local law enforcement reiterated its commitment to a thorough investigation and urged anyone with information related to the case to contact the Goldsboro Police Department.
