“They took my baby girl”: 16-year-old girl killed in shooting in Orlando

ORLANDO, Fla. — A 16-year-old girl was killed in a shooting in Orlando early Sunday morning.

Police were called to the Wawa on John Young Parkway near Silver Star Road just before 1 a.m. for reports of a shooting.

READ: Man found shot and killed in the heart of downtown Orlando, police say

Responding officers found the victim a short distance away on Silver Star Road. She was taken to Arnold Palmer Hospital where she died.

Police have identified the victim as Tavyiah King. She was a student at Evans High School.

READ: Orange County deputies investigating shooting at tourist area of International Drive

Her mother, Alisha Rodriguez, describes her as a good student who never got into trouble and liked to have fun.

“She was so smart and the coolest little kid you could ever meet,” Rodriguez said. “They just took my baby girl. I don’t know what to say. I miss her already...and i really hope somebody just tells me something...anything. Any little thing will help.”

Friends and family gathered at their home in Pine Hills Sunday afternoon to pray and console one another.

“We are here today, once again facing another tragedy within our community that has impacted a family of one that is innocent.”

Tavyiah was also the niece of Orlando City Commissioner Regina Hill.

“This is a plea,” Commissioner Hill said Sunday afternoon. “I give so much to this community, and I don’t ask for nothing. I’m asking you all to find the murderers of my niece.”

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Late Sunday night, Commissioner Hill’s office released the following statement:

“It is with great sadness that I inform you of the recent death of Commissioner Hill’s sixteen year-old niece, who was shot early Sunday morning, and succumbed to her injuries later this afternoon.

At this time, arrangements have not been confirmed. We will keep you updated as the information becomes available.

Please keep Commissioner Hill and her family in your thoughts and prayers as they go through this difficult time. All condolences may be sent to the Office of Commissioner Regina Hill, 400 S Orange Avenue, Orlando FL 32808.”

The Orlando Police Department is asking anyone with information on the shooting to reach out to Crimeline either by text at 8477, or by calling 1-800-423-8477.

Callers can remain anonymous and could be eligible for a cash reward.

Cox Media Group