Jayla Marie Wyatt, 23, of Zanesville, Ohio, was murdered on April 27, 2021, inside her apartment on Sixth Street in downtown Zanesville. Known for enjoying the outdoors and as a mother of two young sons, Jayla was shot multiple times; she was hit in the hip and then shot again after she fell to the ground.

The investigation identified 20-year-old Tristaney Baker of Zanesville as the shooter. Baker reportedly stalked Jayla for hours before the attack and used a firearm obtained from co-defendant Devin McKnelly, who assisted Baker’s escape to Columbus after the shooting. Both Baker and McKnelly were arrested within 24 hours of the killing. Court testimony during the trial included Baker’s defense that she had experienced sexual, physical and emotional abuse from a young age; Baker was sentenced to life in prison without parole.

Jayla’s family and friends continue to honor her memory. If anyone knew Jayla, her routines, or has information about that evening, please share what you know.