A Shelby County, Tennessee, district attorney is seeking to transfer a teenage suspect’s murder and rape trial to adult court.
In July 2024, Aaliyah Kyles, 19, was raped and murdered at her home at 3901 Bald Eagle Drive, according to the Shelby County District Attorney’s Office.
WREG reported that neighbors heard a disturbance and gunshots that month. They saw a male dressed in black leaving the scene. Police later found Kyles naked with gunshot wounds in her bathtub.
When police arrested the suspect, he allegedly admitted to shooting and sexually assaulting Kyles.
District Attorney Steve Mulroy said Friday that requesting a juvenile’s transfer to adult court is one of a prosecutor’s most consequential decisions.
“The differences between juvenile and adult consequences for the same crimes can be vast,” he said.
He added, “That said, the victim, Aaliyah Kyles, was a teenager too with a promising life ahead of her. The suspect admitted to breaking into her apartment, sexually assaulting her, and fatally shooting her. Seeking justice for Aaliyah and her family warrants this request.”
Meanwhile, a GoFundMe fundraiser has been set up to help the family with expenses.
The story is developing. Check back for updates.
[Feature Photo: Aaliyah Kyle/GoFundMe]
