A shocking crime has left a 13-year-old behind bars and a 14-year-old deceased.
Anaya “Naya” Zachary was shot four times by a 13-year-old classmate after a school bus argument in Baytown, Texas, on March 21st.
“Her and the little boy got into it on the bus,” her godmother, Sonya Stanford, told KPRC 2. After the argument, the boy allegedly went home and then returned to the apartment complex playground dressed in black and wearing a mask.
“He called my baby’s name and he shot my baby four times,” Stanford said.
According to her cousin, Janet Zachery, “She tried to turn around and run and he shot her twice in the back, and then when she fell, he shot her two more times,” per ABC 13.
Police arrived and administered aid before Anaya was transported to a hospital, where she was pronounced dead. A nearby woman and her baby were also injured but later cleared by medical staff. The Harris County Medical Examiner ruled the death a homicide, noting gunshot wounds to her torso and arm.
The 13-year-old suspect has been charged with murder and placed in the Harris County Juvenile Detention Center. His identity remains undisclosed due to his age.
Janet Zachery questioned parental responsibility: “That little boy didn’t go purchase that gun.” Stanford echoed this, saying, “I’m very disappointed in his parents… You should have put your weapon up.”
“This tragic incident has deeply affected our community,” Police Chief John Stringer stated. The investigation remains ongoing, with no confirmation on whether the boy’s parents will face charges.
