Zariah Dodd, a 16-year-old resident of Phoenix, Arizona, was tragically killed in a shooting near 55th Avenue and Osborn Road on the morning of July 5, 2025. Found unresponsive at a local park, Zariah was pronounced dead at the scene. At the time of her death, she was 22 weeks pregnant, and her unborn daughter, Zaloni, also lost her life in the incident.
What Happened
Zariah Dodd’s life was cut short when she was fatally shot in a public park. Her unborn daughter, Zaloni, also tragically perished in the incident. Phoenix police have arrested two suspects in connection with the shooting. Jechri James-Gillett (18) and Jurrell Davis (36) were taken into custody, with Davis—identified as the father of Zariah’s unborn child—facing additional charges of sexual misconduct with a minor. Both suspects have been booked on murder charges, and the investigation is ongoing.
Who Was Zariah Dodd?
Zariah was a 16-year-old girl who had been living in a group home while navigating the complexities of the child welfare system. Her family had long fought for custody, hoping to provide her with a stable and loving home. Despite the challenges she faced, Zariah’s family, including her father, Sylquayn Bernard, and uncle, Erik Polk, have spoken out about the systemic failures that left her vulnerable.
Legacy and Community Response
The tragic loss of Zariah and Zaloni has sparked widespread grief and outrage within the community. Zariah’s story has become a symbol of the urgent need for reform within Arizona’s child welfare system. Family and community members have raised their voices to demand accountability and greater protections for vulnerable youth. Zariah’s memory will serve as a call for justice, compassion, and systemic change.
In Memoriam
Zariah Dodd, along with her unborn daughter, Zaloni, is mourned by her family, friends, and the wider community. Their untimely deaths have highlighted the ongoing need for reform and the protection of vulnerable youth in Arizona. Zariah’s legacy lives on as a powerful reminder of the importance of justice and care for those who need it most.
This story may be updated with more information as it becomes available.
The post Zariah Dodd Obituary: Phoenix Teen and Unborn Daughter Tragically Killed in Shooting first appeared on Trusted and Verified USA News.
