Erica Reed, 26, of Chicago was shot in the back of the head and killed on May 12, 2023, while leaving a party at an apartment in the South Chicago area. The shooting followed an earlier altercation at the same location that Erica did not know about. Shaunaria Watson has been identified as the suspect and has been charged in connection with Erica’s death.

Erica is remembered by family and friends as a loving mother who enjoyed dancing and singing and who brought energy to gatherings. She left behind two young children: her son Keant’e KJ Boyd Jr., who was 6 at the time, and her 3-year-old daughter Emari. The children are being raised by their grandmother, Donna Pearson-Simmons, and their father. KJ initially shut down after his mother’s death but has been able to share memories and begin healing through Storytellers Camp run by Chicago Survivors.

If anyone knew Erica, attended that party, or has information about what happened that night, please come forward with what you remember.