Vigil held for 17-year-old fatally shot in Queens
Family, friends, and community members gathered for a vigil in Deaza Barkley's memory.
Family, friends, and community leaders gathered outside the Cypress Hills Library on Monday to honor the life of 17-year-old Deaza Barkley, who was fatally shot in Queens over the weekend.
The NYPD says Barkley was shot in the head Sunday evening in Jamaica. Her mother says the incident occurred at her daughter's friend's house.
Police arrested a 16-year-old boy in connection to the incident. Sources say the teen was holding the gun when it fired, fatally striking Barkley.
Krystal Barkley, Deaza's mother, says she had recently completed a school project on gun violence before she was tragically killed.
At the vigil, mourners described Barkley as a bright, loving presence. Friends and family called her “De-De” and remembered her with a balloon release, chanting, “Long live De-De!”
Barkley's mother reflected on who Deaza was as a person, saying, “The best way I can just describe her is, think of a perfect snowy day, and your favorite hot chocolate.”
The 16-year-old is currently facing three separate charges related to criminal possession of a weapon, but there has been no word yet on any charges related to murder or manslaughter.
