On Friday afternoon, the Hopewell Police Department in Virginia announced a break in the murder case of 8-year-old P’Aris Moore, who was shot and killed while playing outside with her friends in December 2022, according to reports.
On August 8, Hopewell Police arrested 20-year-old Jamari Antonio Taylor and 18-year-old Rayquan Latrel Harvell on Aug. 8. The two were indicted on charges concerning the death of P’Aris Moore.
“Months of reviewing the case, following up on leads, and conducting interviews led us to the arrest of the two individuals we have in custody,” said Lieutenant Jacquita Allen, public information officer for the Hopewell Police Department.
On Friday, Dec. 30, 2022, officers found Moore suffering from a gunshot wound to her chest. Moore later died from her injury at Tri-Cities Hospital.
Witnesses reported seeing a light-colored four-door sedan with tinted windows speeding through the area at the time of the shooting that may be related.
P’Aris’ mother, Brionna Taylor, says her daughter was outside playing with friends during the drive-by shooting. Brionna says her daughter loved making TikTok videos and riding her bike with her friends. P’Aris was just four days away from turning 9 years old at the time of her death.
“This impacted the whole community, not just one person, the entire community. We’re just grateful we can bring justice to her family,” said Lt. Allen.
Lt. Allen said the lead investigator in this case worked multiple angles and didn’t stop until justice was served.
“Children should feel safe. They should feel safe to come outside and ride a bike and not have to worry about gun violence affecting them. So, like I said, it’s an honor to bring justice to her family,” said Lt. Allen.
Deputy Chief Donald Reid also wrote the following statement in a press release announcing the arrests:
“We are thankful for the thorough and professional investigative work of our entire team, along with the dedicated staff of the Commonwealth’s Attorney’s Office who worked tirelessly to bring closure to the family of P’Aris Moore. We remain proud of our community and all who provided valuable information to assist in this investigation.”
Taylor has been indicted on first-degree murder, using a firearm to commit a felony, conspiracy to commit murder, and possessing a firearm by a convicted felon. Harvell was also charged with first-degree murder and possession of a firearm to commit a felony.
Taylor and Harvell are being held without bond.
Taylor is in court next Wednesday, August 16. He is also facing a second-degree murder charge in a June homicide in the city.
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