MUKILTEO, Wash. — On a somber evening marked by remembrance, family and friends gathered at Mukilteo Lighthouse Park Thursday to celebrate the life of 13-year-old Jayda Woods-Johnson, whose life was tragically cut short by a stray bullet a year ago at Alderwood Mall. As the sun set over the water, the community came together to share their love for Jayda, reminiscing about the joy she brought into their lives.
Cali Huffman, Woods-Johnson’s cousin, captured the mood of the gathering, describing it as a day filled with mixed emotions. “Jayda was more than a cousin; she was like a sister to me,” Huffman remarked. “Taking her on adventures was always a joy for me. She appreciated every moment.”
The vigil took place near Jayda’s former home, a location that had special significance despite her never getting the chance to visit. Huffman expressed what many felt, saying, “This place would have meant so much to her. The pain is still fresh, and every day is a reminder of our loss.”
Among the attendees were two of Jayda’s close friends, who donned red shirts—the color that represented Jayda’s vibrant spirit. As they prepared for high school without her, Gabby Crowell reflected on the emotional void: “We’re stepping into this new chapter, but it’s hard knowing she won’t be with us physically.”
Jayda was killed on July 3, 2022, during an incident at Alderwood Mall that arose from a conflict among teenagers. At the time, she was with her best friend, completely uninvolved in the altercation that led to the violence. The suspected shooter, who is now 17 years old, remains behind bars, with ongoing delays in his trial worsening the family’s anguish.
Despite their grief, those present sought to honor Jayda’s spirit and bring light to the darkness surrounding her death. Many opened up about their memories, sharing laughter even through tears, remembering her love for life and the time spent with those she cared about. “She thrived in the company of people she loved,” Huffman said.
The vigil also served as a platform for the community to advocate against youth violence, signaling a collective call for change. Family and friends continue to push for justice, emphasizing the need to address the issues that led to Jayda’s untimely demise.
In a world where youth violence casts a long shadow, gatherings like Thursday night’s vigil highlight the resilience of those affected. They not only honor lives lost but also ignite conversations aimed at fostering safer communities for future generations.