CLEVELAND — A 23-year-old woman has been charged with murder following a shooting that claimed the life of 25-year-old Kiara Jackson at Cleveland Metroparks’ Mill Creek Falls. Lavia Paul, who entered a not-guilty plea during her arraignment, is held on a $500,000 bond.
Authorities report that Paul was on probation after pleading guilty to child endangerment earlier this year when the shooting occurred early Wednesday morning. Officers responded to the park on Turney Road after receiving reports of gunfire. Upon arrival, they discovered Jackson had been shot fatally.
Metroparks Police Chief Kelly Stillman noted that Jackson was part of a group that had gathered in the park during the early hours, close to 3 a.m., following an all-day event. The park had been closed since 11 p.m. the previous night. “Based on preliminary investigations, there was no altercation reported prior to the shooting,” Stillman said, adding that witnesses from the sizable gathering helped to identify the shooter.
Investigators utilized surveillance technology to pinpoint Paul and her vehicle, which was recorded leaving the scene shortly after the incident. The police department deployed license plate readers to trace her whereabouts. After a day of investigation, Paul surrendered to authorities around 7:40 p.m. but did not provide any statements to detectives. The firearm involved in the shooting has yet to be recovered, and details regarding the relationship between Paul and Jackson remain unclear.
The investigation is a coordinated effort involving Cleveland Police and other units, emphasizing community collaboration in resolving such serious crimes. “We rely on the cooperation of various departments to tackle incidents like this efficiently,” Stillman remarked.
In the wake of the tragedy, Jackson’s family grapples with their loss. Deshawnte Jackson recalled receiving a flurry of messages and a heartbreaking call from her mother, informing her of Kiara’s death. “It’s difficult to fathom, especially losing a sibling,” she said, expressing the shock and sorrow felt by her family.
Kiara Jackson was remembered as a vibrant and inclusive individual who had a profound impact on her family, being one of over a dozen siblings. Deshawnte described her sister as grounded and a friend to everyone, recalling the deep sense of love that permeated their family ties. “We are a big family, and we’ll get through this together. Kiara was a wonderful person, and I love her dearly,” she lamented.
As the investigation continues, the community reflects on the fragility of life and the senselessness of violence, seeking answers amid their grief.