North Carolina Police Arrest Two Teens After 13-Year-Old Girl Is Fatally Shot Walking Home in Goldsboro Ambush

North Carolina — A heartbreaking tragedy is unfolding in Goldsboro after 13-year-old Jaleeyah Tune was fatally shot while walking home with her sister and friends. Goldsboro Police confirmed that the young girl died at the scene after three teenage boys ambushed the group and opened fire, leaving the family and community devastated.

Ambush Occurs as Sisters Walk Home From a Meal With Friends

According to police and family statements, Jaleeyah and her 14-year-old sister, Ja’Shiah, had just finished grabbing a bite to eat with friends when the shooting occurred. As the group walked home, three teenage boys allegedly jumped out from nearby bushes and began firing, sending everyone running for cover.

Ja’Shiah told investigators she fled at first but quickly realized her younger sister was no longer beside her. When she turned back, she saw that Jaleeyah had collapsed after being struck by gunfire. Police arrived shortly after, but Jaleeyah was pronounced deceased at the scene.

Sister Shares Devastating Final Moments

In an emotional account, Ja’Shiah described the moment she reached her sister’s side.

“She looked so scared. I hated to have to see her like that. There was blood all over my hands, and I didn’t want to wipe it off because I still felt her presence,” she said.

Loved ones say the sisters were extremely close, and Jaleeyah—affectionately known as “LeLe”—was described as kind, joyful and deeply loved by her family and friends.

Suspects Identified; Two Teens Face Adult Charges

Goldsboro Police confirmed that three suspects, ages 15 and 16, were taken into custody following the shooting. The two 16-year-olds — Jy’Aere Smith and Josh Jordan — are being charged as adults due to the severity of the crime. Charges include offenses related to first-degree murder and assault.

The 15-year-old suspect has not been publicly identified because of his age but remains in custody facing juvenile murder-related charges. Authorities have not yet released a motive, and the investigation remains active with additional interviews and forensic review underway.

Community Mourns as Family Faces Holiday Heartbreak

As many families prepare for holiday festivities, Jaleeyah’s loved ones are instead planning a funeral. Community members have expressed shock and grief, noting that the killing of such a young child is especially painful during a season meant for celebration.

Neighbors and family supporters say the violence that took Jaleeyah’s life has left the community shaken, prompting renewed calls for youth intervention programs and stronger support systems for at-risk teens in the area. Police have increased patrols in surrounding neighborhoods and encouraged anyone with additional information to come forward.

Officials Urge Calm as Investigation Continues

Goldsboro Police emphasized that while arrests have been made, the investigation is ongoing, and more details will be released when available. They also urged residents to support the grieving family and refrain from spreading unverified information online. Counselors and crisis response teams have been made available for students and families impacted by the shooting. For continuing updates on this case and other major public safety stories, visit NapervilleLocal.com.