Jalea Turner Obituary and Death: Erie Police Identify Shakeyah T. Barnes as Suspect in the Fatal Shooting of 20-Year-Old Woman at New Year’s Eve Party
Erie, PA – In a shocking start to the new year, the Erie Police Department has identified 27-year-old Shakeyah T. Barnes, also known as “Red,” as the primary suspect in the city’s first homicide of 2025. Authorities have linked Barnes to the tragic death of 20-year-old Jalea Turner, who was fatally shot during a private New Year’s Eve party held on the 900 block of West 19th Street.
Turner, a beloved member of the Erie community, sustained a gunshot wound to the head during what investigators have described as a heated confrontation stemming from a longstanding feud. The Erie County Coroner, Lyell Cook, confirmed Turner’s death, which has sent shockwaves through her family and friends as they come to terms with the sudden loss.
The Tragic Incident
The fatal shooting occurred during an invite-only New Year’s Eve celebration that was marred by a dispute described as an “east side versus west side beef.” Witnesses reported that the argument escalated quickly, prompting Barnes to leave the gathering. However, shortly after Barnes departed, shots rang out, leaving partygoers in a state of chaos.
Turner, who had been attending the celebration with friends, was struck in the head by a bullet. Another victim, whose identity has not been released, sustained a gunshot wound to the leg and was rushed to the hospital. This individual has since been treated and discharged, but the emotional scars from the incident remain.
Emergency responders arrived on the scene within minutes, transporting Turner to a nearby medical facility. Despite extensive efforts to save her, Turner was declared brain-dead on the afternoon of January 1. An autopsy conducted later that day confirmed the severity of her injuries, leaving her loved ones devastated.
A Suspect at Large
Following the tragic events, the Erie Police Department launched an immediate investigation. Witnesses at the scene identified Barnes as the suspected shooter, pointing to him as the individual who unleashed the gunfire that claimed Turner’s life.
Barnes, a resident of Erie known for his alias “Red,” remains at large as of Friday morning. Authorities have issued multiple charges against him, including homicide, attempted homicide, and aggravated assault. Police documents indicate that Barnes fled the scene immediately after the shooting and has since evaded capture.
Law enforcement officials are working tirelessly to locate Barnes, describing him as armed and dangerous. Erie Police Chief Dan Spizarny has urged the public to come forward with any information regarding Barnes’s whereabouts, emphasizing the importance of community cooperation in bringing him to justice.
Remembering Jalea Turner
Jalea Turner, affectionately known as “Lea” to her friends and family, was a vibrant young woman whose life was tragically cut short. Born and raised in Erie, Turner was known for her infectious smile, kind heart, and unwavering loyalty to those she cared about.
At just 20 years old, Turner had her entire life ahead of her. She was described by loved ones as a passionate individual with dreams of pursuing a career in nursing. Her commitment to helping others extended beyond her aspirations, as she often volunteered at local shelters and community events.
Turner’s death has left an irreplaceable void in the lives of her family and friends. Her mother, speaking through tears, described her daughter as “the light of our family” and expressed heartbreak over the senseless act of violence that took her away.
Community Response
The tragic loss of Jalea Turner has sparked an outpouring of grief and anger within the Erie community. Vigils have been held in her honor, with hundreds gathering to light candles, share memories, and demand justice for the young woman whose life was taken far too soon.
Community leaders have also spoken out, emphasizing the need to address the root causes of violence and foster unity in Erie. Pastor James McMillan, who presided over one of the vigils, called for an end to the cycle of retaliation and urged residents to work together to prevent future tragedies.
“We cannot allow this to become the norm in our city,” McMillan said. “Jalea’s life mattered, and we owe it to her and her family to ensure that justice is served and peace is restored.”
The Investigation Continues
As the investigation into Turner’s death continues, the Erie Police Department remains focused on apprehending Barnes and uncovering the full details of the incident. Detectives are working to determine the exact sequence of events that led to the shooting and are exploring the possibility that additional individuals may have been involved.
Authorities have not disclosed whether Barnes acted alone or if the altercation was premeditated. However, police have emphasized that their top priority is securing justice for Turner and providing closure to her grieving family.
In the meantime, Erie police have ramped up patrols in the area surrounding the 900 block of West 19th Street, hoping to deter further violence and reassure residents of their safety.
Seeking Justice
The family of Jalea Turner has issued a heartfelt plea to the public, urging anyone with information about Barnes’s whereabouts to come forward. “We need answers,” said Turner’s aunt. “Jalea didn’t deserve this, and we won’t rest until the person responsible is held accountable.”
Turner’s loved ones have also started a memorial fund to cover funeral expenses and support initiatives aimed at combating gun violence in Erie. The fund has already garnered significant support from the community, reflecting the widespread impact of Turner’s tragic death.
A City in Mourning
As Erie grapples with the aftermath of its first homicide of 2025, residents are left reflecting on the senselessness of violence and the importance of coming together in times of tragedy. Turner’s death serves as a painful reminder of the fragility of life and the urgent need for solutions to address the factors contributing to violence in the community.
For now, the focus remains on honoring Turner’s memory and ensuring that her story serves as a catalyst for change. As her family prepares to lay her to rest, they are determined to channel their grief into action, advocating for a safer and more compassionate Erie.
Leave a Reply