On August 21, 2023, 13-year-old Samyiah James was shot near the 7400 block of SW 12th Court in North Lauderdale, Florida, about a block from Silver Lakes Middle School. Deputies arrived after reports around 10:30 p.m. and found Samyiah with a gunshot wound; she was treated by North Lauderdale Fire Rescue and flown to a local hospital, where she died around 11:30 p.m.

Samyiah was a seventh-grade student at Silver Lakes Middle School and was remembered by family and friends for her generosity, love of singing, and ambition. The shooting is believed to have happened outside an apartment during an argument. Investigators had not disclosed any leads that could prompt an arrest, and a reward of up to $5,000 was being offered for information leading to an arrest.

If anyone knew Samyiah or witnessed the incident, please contact Broward Crime Stoppers with any information that might help bring justice.