On the evening of Saturday, November 8, 2025, gunshots were reported in Southeast Washington, D.C., and officers from the Seventh District responded to the 3300 block of 14th Place, Southeast at about 8:33 p.m. There they found 22-year-old Jayla Vaden of Southeast suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. She was unconscious and not breathing; emergency medical personnel pronounced her dead at the scene.

The location of the shooting is north of Barry Farm and south of the Anacostia neighborhood. Investigators have opened a homicide inquiry but have not publicly identified any suspects or announced arrests. Officials say a motive has not been established and are asking the public for information, offering a substantial reward for tips that lead to an arrest and conviction.

If anyone knew Jayla, witnessed activity on 14th Place that night, or has information that could help the investigation, please contact the Metropolitan Police Department.