Leilani Valle, 28, was found shot and dead inside a residence on Diana Lane in Marianna, Florida, on August 18, 2018. A licensed practical nurse, Valle is described as remembered for her dedication and compassion by family and friends.

Authorities charged Valle’s girlfriend, Laveashia Milton, with second-degree murder with a firearm after Milton admitted to shooting Valle and later surrendered to police. Milton told investigators the shooting was in self-defense, alleging a history of abuse she had not reported. At trial the defense maintained Milton acted out of fear as Valle pursued her, while the prosecution disputed that the shooting was justified.

After about three hours of deliberation, a jury found Milton not guilty of second-degree murder. Valle’s death remains a tragic loss for her family and the Marianna community. If anyone knew Leilani or has information about what happened that night, please share what you know.