Chicago, IL – February 9, 2025 – The Chicago Police Department has arrested Terri Lashae Bailey, also known as Kitana Brooks, in connection with the fatal shooting of 29-year-old Jamia Taylor, a tragedy that has left family, friends, and the South Shore community reeling.

The Cook County Medical Examiner’s Office confirmed that Taylor, affectionately known as “Mya” by those close to her, was gunned down in cold blood during the early morning hours of Sunday, February 9, 2025. Authorities report that the shooting occurred near the intersection of 79th Street and Bennett Avenue following a dispute that quickly escalated into deadly violence.

Taylor had reportedly been celebrating her birthday with friends at an after-hours event when she was confronted by her assailant. A heated altercation turned violent when Bailey, 28, allegedly pulled out a firearm and opened fire on Taylor, striking her multiple times before fleeing the scene.

Emergency Response and Immediate Investigation

At approximately 5:25 a.m., CPD officers responded to numerous reports of gunfire in the South Shore neighborhood. Upon arrival, they discovered Taylor lying unresponsive in the middle of the street, suffering from multiple gunshot wounds to her chest and body. Officers immediately attempted life-saving measures before paramedics arrived and transported her to the University of Chicago Medical Center. Tragically, despite medical efforts, Taylor was pronounced dead shortly after arrival.

Investigators quickly cordoned off the area, marking it as an active crime scene. Shell casings, personal belongings, and bloodstains were scattered across the pavement, painting a grim picture of the night’s horrific events. Witnesses were reluctant to come forward at first, but through extensive interviews and surveillance footage analysis, detectives identified Bailey as the prime suspect in the killing.

A History of Conflict?

According to sources close to the victim, Taylor and Bailey had a complicated history. Some reports suggest that previous disputes between the two may have played a role in the fatal shooting. A friend of Taylor, who wished to remain anonymous, stated, “Mya didn’t deserve this. She was out celebrating her birthday, just having a good time. I can’t believe someone took her life like that.”

Social media posts and messages between the two women are now being examined by investigators, with authorities looking into whether past tensions contributed to the tragic incident. While the exact motive remains unclear, law enforcement is considering all angles, including possible jealousy, personal vendettas, or a disagreement that spiraled out of control.

The Arrest of Terri Bailey

Following an intensive three-day manhunt, Chicago Police apprehended Bailey at a residence on the West Side of Chicago. According to officials, she was found hiding in a family member’s home, allegedly attempting to evade authorities. Officers took her into custody without incident, and she was transported to the CPD headquarters for questioning.

Upon her arrest, Bailey reportedly refused to cooperate with investigators. However, sources indicate that forensic evidence, including firearm residue and video footage from local businesses, placed her at the scene of the crime.

Community Outcry and Family’s Grief

Taylor’s death has left her family in profound grief. Her mother, Latonya Taylor, spoke to reporters outside her home, struggling to hold back tears. “My baby didn’t deserve this. She had her whole life ahead of her. Whoever did this took a piece of our family away forever,” she said.

Family members describe Taylor as a loving, ambitious young woman who had dreams of becoming a successful entrepreneur. “She was always the life of the party, full of energy and love,” said her cousin, who asked to remain anonymous. “She didn’t deserve to be taken from us like this.”

The community has also expressed outrage over the violence. South Shore residents have long voiced concerns about escalating crime in their neighborhood, calling for stricter gun control measures and more proactive policing. “We’re tired of this,” said local activist Ray Davis. “Another young Black woman gone too soon. When will it stop?”

Legal Proceedings and Possible Charges

Bailey now faces multiple charges, including first-degree murder and unlawful use of a weapon. If convicted, she could face life in prison. The Cook County State’s Attorney’s Office is expected to pursue the case aggressively, citing the clear and present danger of escalating violence in the community.

Legal analysts believe that Bailey’s defense may attempt to claim self-defense or argue that the shooting was not premeditated. However, given the nature of the attack and the number of shots fired, prosecutors are expected to argue that the killing was intentional and deliberate.

Public Response and Social Media Reactions

Taylor’s murder has sparked widespread attention on social media, with the hashtag #JusticeForMya trending across multiple platforms. Celebrities, activists, and concerned citizens have shared their condolences and called for justice.

One viral post from a friend of Taylor read: “Mya was a light in this world. She didn’t deserve this. We won’t stop until we get justice.”

Many community members have also taken to social media to demand action against rising violence, urging city officials to implement better crime prevention strategies.

Ongoing Investigation and Call for Witnesses

While Bailey is in custody, investigators are still piecing together the full timeline of events leading up to the shooting. They continue to urge any witnesses who were present at the after-hours event to come forward. “We know there were many people at that party. We need them to speak up,” said CPD spokesperson Officer Luis Martinez.

Authorities have also requested that any individuals with cellphone footage from the night of the incident submit it to police. “Even the smallest piece of evidence can help us bring full justice to this case,” said Detective Maria Gonzales of the CPD Homicide Division.

Anyone with information regarding the shooting is encouraged to submit tips anonymously at CPDTIP.COM or contact the Chicago Police Department directly.

Looking Ahead

As Taylor’s family prepares for her funeral, the case against Bailey is only just beginning. Legal proceedings are expected to move swiftly, with Bailey’s first court appearance scheduled for next week. The community remains on edge, awaiting further developments in what has become yet another tragic case of gun violence in Chicago.

For now, Taylor’s loved ones are left to mourn and seek solace in the hope that justice will be served. “We won’t let Mya’s name be forgotten,” said her sister. “She deserves justice. And we won’t stop fighting until she gets it.”