CINCINNATI — One year has passed since 9-year-old Da’Myiah Barton-Pickens was fatally shot in her grandmother’s residence during a drive-by shooting, but her family’s quest for justice remains unfulfilled. On the anniversary of her tragic death, relatives and friends gathered near the Hamilton County courthouse and justice center, expressing their profound grief and frustration with the slow pace of the judicial process.
Wrapped in custom-made pink t-shirts emblazoned with “Forever 9,” the mourning assembly marched to honor the young victim. The girl was reportedly unintended collateral in an attack believed to have targeted a family member who was not present at the home during the incident. Authorities have disclosed that at least thirty bullets were discharged, one of which claimed Da’Myiah’s life.
Her mother, Danieka Pickens, shared her agony over the prolonged legal proceedings. “It’s challenging to be patient when frustration overwhelms you,” she said. “My heart will never be at ease, but we need to see some progress.”
Recent court developments reveal that last month, Demario Williams received a sentence of 3.5 years in prison after pleading guilty to charges including tampering with evidence and vehicular assault linked to the case. Co-defendants Qasseem Dixon and Ryan Brown are expected to appear in court shortly.
Danieka emphasized the family’s commitment to seeing the case through by attending every court hearing. “We enter that courtroom with our heads held high, determined to make it clear that we demand justice and will persist no matter how long it takes,” she stated.
The pain of Da’Myiah’s untimely death reverberates through her family. Her cousin Kelsie Pickens, 12, remembered Da’Myiah as a radiant presence who uplifted those around her even in their lowest moments.
The family’s painful journey through the justice system is compounded by their active involvement in community advocacy against violence. Dorshika, Da’Myiah’s aunt, noted that while she often shields her children from the harsh realities of the courtroom, the need to channel her niece’s tragic story into a broader message against community violence compelled her presence.
“We have a responsibility to raise our voices not only for our lost children but also for the wellbeing of the entire community,” Dorshika stated. Danieka echoed this sentiment, adding, “Together, united as one, perhaps we can finally see the change needed.”
As the legal proceedings drag on, Da’Myiah’s family continues to strive for justice and calls for an end to such senseless violence, hoping that their tragedy may help ignite a movement for change. They stand resolute, bonded not only by their grief but by a shared determination to transform their pain into a catalyst for peace.