Maria Tritico, 32, an artist and education director at the Lighthouse ArtCenter in Tequesta, Florida, died after being struck in the head by a stray bullet while watching her fiancé, Chad Steve, play frisbee football on Singer Island. The shooting happened on December 6, 2020; despite efforts to save her she was taken off life support the next day. Maria was known for her work in art therapy with veterans, the elderly, and victims of sex trafficking and for exhibiting her art in galleries across the United States and Canada.

Investigators say 16-year-old Amari Wellons was arrested and charged as an adult with first-degree murder. Police allege Wellons fired multiple shots during an altercation tied to ongoing feuds involving his family; surveillance footage and witness testimony were used to identify and apprehend him. The community continues to mourn her loss and remember her contributions to art and healing.

If anyone knew Maria, her work, or saw activity at the Singer Island beach park that day, please share what you know.