Annalaya Wilkerson, 18, was found shot and killed on the side of Jolly School Road in South Franklin Township on April 13, 2024. Residents reported hearing gunshots around 11 p.m.; Wilkerson was pronounced dead at the scene from a gunshot wound to the chest. A 17-year-old friend who had been shot survived and was flown to a Pittsburgh hospital in critical condition and underwent multiple surgeries.

Investigators identified four suspects. According to testimony, Wilkerson and her friend had arranged to meet Anthony Barfield but were picked up instead by Windale Winnie Barfield Jr., 19, and Karon Whitlock, 20. The surviving friend testified that Windale Barfield allegedly opened fire as the girls got out of the car. Authorities say cell phone data led to charges including criminal homicide, conspiracy, and attempted homicide; a fourth person, Jeheili Cochran, 25, was charged with hindering apprehension and tampering with evidence after allegedly helping Whitlock flee and dispose of the alleged murder weapon, which has not been recovered.

Three of the four charged pleaded guilty in January 2026, with Windale Barfield Jr. sentenced to 22 to 44 years and Anthony Barfield receiving 15 to 30 years; Jeheili Cochran pleaded guilty to tampering with evidence.

If anyone knew Annalaya, was in the South Franklin Township area that night, or has information about the events on Jolly School Road, please come forward.