In a devastating incident early on the morning of January 21, 2025, Stephanie Lyn, also known as Stephanie Wenneberg, lost her life after being fatally shot outside an apartment complex in Garland, Texas. The tragic shooting took place just before 2 a.m. in the parking lot of a residential building on Chaha Road. The victim, who was discovered with a gunshot wound, was rushed to the hospital but tragically succumbed to her injuries. Authorities say the shooting occurred during a disturbance involving a man and two women. The suspect, identified as 39-year-old Robert Ray Kelly from Dallas, fled the scene before law enforcement could arrive. Garland Police are actively investigating the incident and are urging anyone with information to come forward.

Timeline of Events: The sequence of events leading to Stephanie Lyn’s death began shortly before 2 a.m. on January 21, 2025, when police were called to the scene of a reported shooting at an apartment complex located on Chaha Road in Garland, a city just northeast of Dallas. Multiple calls to 911 described the sound of gunfire, prompting an immediate response from the Garland Police Department.

When officers arrived at the apartment complex, they found Stephanie lying in the parking lot with a gunshot wound. Paramedics were quickly on the scene and rushed her to a nearby hospital, but despite their best efforts, Stephanie was pronounced dead shortly after arrival.

Details of the Shooting Incident: Initial reports suggest that the shooting occurred during a disturbance that involved 39-year-old Robert Ray Kelly and two women, including Stephanie Lyn. According to Garland Police, the situation escalated into violence when Kelly allegedly fired shots during the altercation. The nature of the disturbance remains unclear, but authorities have indicated that there was some kind of argument or confrontation between the individuals involved.

Kelly, who is believed to have been the shooter, fled the scene before officers arrived. Police believe he left the area in a vehicle, and they are actively working to locate him. At this time, Kelly is considered a suspect in the shooting and has not yet been apprehended.

While the two women involved in the disturbance, including the victim, have been identified, police have not released the identity of the second woman or provided further details about her involvement in the incident. Investigators are continuing to interview witnesses and gather evidence to determine the full scope of the event.

Investigation and Search for Suspect: Garland Police have launched a full-scale investigation into the shooting, with officers canvassing the area for any additional evidence or surveillance footage that may help identify Kelly’s whereabouts. The department has confirmed that they are working closely with local and regional law enforcement agencies to track down the suspect, who is believed to be from the Dallas area.

Authorities are asking anyone who may have witnessed the shooting or who has information about Kelly’s whereabouts to contact the Garland Police Department. They have set up a tip line and are urging members of the public to come forward with any details, no matter how small, that could assist in locating the suspect.

“We are committed to bringing justice to Stephanie Lyn’s family and ensuring that those responsible for this tragic act of violence are held accountable,” said Garland Police Chief, David Brown. “We urge anyone with information to contact us immediately.”

The suspect, Robert Ray Kelly, is described as a 39-year-old male from Dallas, and authorities have released his name and image in hopes of generating leads. While his exact whereabouts are currently unknown, investigators believe he may have fled the Garland area and could be hiding in nearby communities.

Community Impact and Response: The shooting has left the Garland community shaken, with many residents expressing their shock and disbelief at the tragic incident. The apartment complex on Chaha Road, typically a quiet residential area, is now the focus of intense police activity as investigators work to piece together the details of the crime.

Family members and friends of Stephanie Lyn have also expressed their grief, mourning the loss of a young woman who had so much potential. Stephanie was described by those who knew her as kind-hearted and full of life. Friends have flooded social media with tributes, sharing memories of her infectious smile and positive attitude.

“My heart is broken. Stephanie was an amazing person, and she didn’t deserve this,” one friend posted on social media. “She was always there for everyone, and she touched so many lives. We will never forget her.”

Stephanie’s family has also issued a statement expressing their sorrow and thanking those who have reached out with support. “Stephanie was taken from us far too soon, and our hearts are shattered. We are asking for privacy as we grieve this unimaginable loss, but we also urge anyone with information to help bring justice to Stephanie,” the statement read.

In response to the shooting, local organizations have begun offering support to those impacted by the tragedy. Grief counselors are available to provide assistance to the victim’s family and friends, and several community leaders have expressed their commitment to addressing violence in the area. The Garland Police Department has also promised to increase patrols in the neighborhood to reassure residents and prevent further incidents.

The Disturbance and Relationship Between the Involved Parties: While the investigation is still in its early stages, authorities have revealed that the shooting occurred during a disturbance that involved Stephanie and at least one other woman, along with the suspect, Robert Ray Kelly. The nature of the disturbance remains unclear, but police believe it was related to a personal conflict between those involved.

At this time, investigators are working to understand the relationship between Kelly and the two women. While authorities have not disclosed whether Stephanie knew Kelly personally or whether the shooting was related to a domestic situation, they are exploring all possibilities. The relationship dynamics between the individuals involved will be a key aspect of the ongoing investigation.

It is not yet known if alcohol, drugs, or other substances played a role in the disturbance, but authorities are reviewing all potential factors that could have contributed to the escalation of violence. Police are also examining any prior history between Kelly and the women to determine if there were any warning signs leading up to the fatal shooting.

Community Reactions and Calls for Justice: As news of Stephanie Lyn’s tragic death spread throughout Garland, local residents and community leaders have voiced their outrage at the senseless violence. Many have called for justice and for stronger measures to address the increasing problem of gun violence in the area.

“We can’t keep losing our young people to senseless violence,” said community activist, Lisa Thompson. “This is not just a tragedy for Stephanie’s family; it’s a tragedy for all of us. We need to come together as a community to say enough is enough.”

Local politicians have also spoken out, condemning the shooting and calling for immediate action to prevent future tragedies. “My heart goes out to Stephanie’s family and friends. This violence must stop,” said Garland City Council member, Aaron Murphy. “We need stronger laws to keep guns out of the wrong hands and ensure that this doesn’t keep happening in our communities.”

Efforts to Increase Public Awareness and Prevent Violence: In the wake of this tragedy, several organizations in Garland have come together to promote awareness about gun violence and its impact on the community. They are urging local lawmakers to implement stricter gun control measures and to increase funding for violence prevention programs.

In addition, there have been calls for greater support for those who may be at risk of engaging in violent behavior. Mental health professionals and social workers have emphasized the need for more resources to address the underlying causes of violence, including issues related to trauma, substance abuse, and domestic violence.

Several vigil and memorial events are being organized in Stephanie’s honor, where community members will gather to remember her life and stand in solidarity against gun violence.

The Search for Justice: As the Garland Police Department continues to search for Robert Ray Kelly, the community remains hopeful that justice will be served. Authorities have stressed the importance of community cooperation in bringing the suspect to justice. Kelly is considered armed and dangerous, and law enforcement officials have warned the public not to approach him if they spot him, but to instead contact 911 immediately.

“We are doing everything we can to bring Robert Ray Kelly into custody,” said Chief Brown. “We will not stop until we have the answers that Stephanie’s family deserves. We encourage anyone with information to come forward and help us solve this case.”

Conclusion: The loss of Stephanie Lyn (Wenneberg) has left an indelible mark on the Garland community. As the investigation continues and the search for justice unfolds, Stephanie’s family, friends, and neighbors are left to cope with the profound sadness of her untimely death. The tragedy highlights the need for greater efforts to address violence in local communities and to ensure that no more lives are lost to senseless acts of aggression.

The Garland Police Department is committed to finding the truth and holding the responsible parties accountable, while the community remains united in their grief and their desire for justice. Stephanie Lyn’s memory will live on in the hearts of those who knew her, and her story will continue to serve as a reminder of the importance of safety, compassion, and solidarity in the fight against violence.

As the search for Robert Ray Kelly continues, the hope is that the community will come together to support one another and work toward a safer, more peaceful future for all.