9-year-old hero killed while trying to get younger siblings to safety amid gunfire

Louisiana authorities say a 9-year-old girl was shot and killed while getting her younger siblings to safety as gunfire erupted near their home in broad daylight on May 12.

9-Year-Old Hero Killed

Lee’Lani Brooks, 9, was playing outside her home in New Orleans just before 2 p.m. when men nearby began shooting at each other, according to police.

Lee’Lani and her mother ran inside their home, but a stray bullet traveled through a window and hit Lee’Lani in the head as she ran to get her younger siblings to safety, police said.

She was then rushed to a local hospital, where she was placed on life support and declared brain dead, NOLA reported. On May 16, her family made the decision to take her off life support and she died soon after.

New Orleans Police have arrested Evans Rogers, 20, and Devante Traylor, 22. Both have been charged with attempted second-degree murder and illegal use of weapons, the New Orleans Police Department said in a statement.

GoFundMe Details

Known for her vibrant spirit and protective heart, Lee’Lani brought joy to everyone around her and leaves behind a grieving family, including her loving parents Letisha and Tyron.

A GoFundMe has been launched to assist with funeral expenses and support the family during this unimaginable time. The community is invited to honor her memory by sharing stories and keeping her light alive.

“My baby Lee’lani was a sweet, vibrant, and fun 9-year-old child who loved and was loved by everyone around her,” Lee’Lani’s mother, Letisha Johnson wrote in the post. “She was a leader and ensured all her younger family members were protected. Her smile is unforgettable, and her personality was infectious.”

Lee’Lani Brooks remembered

On May 20, Lee’Lani’s family held a balloon release for the 9-year-old hero. Johnson was devastated about her daughter’s death and told Fox 8 that their family was still processing their grief.

“I just want everyone to remember my baby for who she was,” Johnson said, adding that Lee’Lani loved doing her makeup, doing her nails, dancing, and was admired by her family members and friends.

“That’s what we want the world to remember her as, a hero, someone who was so selfless at 9 years old,” Mike Willis, a community activist, told the outlet.