Dayton, Ohio – The Dayton community is reeling after the tragic death of 12-year-old Isabellas Amor-Carlos, who was fatally struck by stray gunfire while sleeping in her home. The heartbreaking incident occurred early Friday morning, August 23, 2024, at approximately 1 a.m., in the 30 block of W. Fairview Avenue.
Isabellas, a seventh-grade student at Charity Adams Earley Girls Academy, was asleep in her bed when the gunfire erupted outside her home. The Montgomery County Coroner’s Office confirmed her identity, sending shockwaves of grief throughout the Dayton community, especially within her school, where she had been a cherished member since preschool.
Dayton Public Schools Superintendent Dr. David Lawrence expressed deep sorrow over the loss, stating, "The Dayton Public School District is saddened by the death of a 7th-grade student at Charity Adams Earley Girls Academy, who has attended the school since preschool. This student was an important member of the Charity Adams community and will be greatly missed by both staff and students."
The Dayton Police Department, led by Major Brian Johns, believes that two individuals may have been involved in the shooting. However, no arrests have been made, and investigators are working diligently to identify and apprehend those responsible. The shooting also caused damage to several nearby homes, though no other injuries were reported.
The senseless death of Isabellas has sparked a wave of grief and anger across the community, with many residents calling for justice and an end to the violence that continues to claim innocent lives. The Dayton Public School District has initiated grief counseling services for students and staff at Charity Adams Earley Girls Academy to help them cope with this devastating loss.
Social media has been flooded with messages of condolence and support for Isabellas’s family. Adam Aaro, a community member, shared his heartbreak on Facebook, writing, "I am heartbroken over this… Please keep this 12-year-old girl’s family in your thoughts and your prayers… Early this morning, Dayton Police & Fire say people fired gunshots into her home and killed her while she was sleeping. Her name is Isabellas Amor-Carlos and she was a 7th grader… I can’t wrap my mind around it. My deepest condolences to her family and loved ones. I cannot fathom their grief…"
Other community members echoed the sentiment, with Lisa Brunty Marsh commenting, "How horrible! My heart aches for her family and friends," and Bonnie-Jean Seaver adding, "This is just so very wrong!!! I can only imagine what her family is facing!"
As the investigation continues, authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward. The Dayton Police Department is appealing for community cooperation to bring the perpetrators to justice. The tragic loss of Isabellas has underscored the urgent need for action to prevent further violence and protect the lives of innocent children.
The community’s outpouring of support and calls for justice serve as a testament to the impact Isabellas had on those who knew her and the collective grief felt by all in the wake of her untimely death.