A heartbreaking vigil took place in East New York for 17-year-old Deaza Barkley, who was fatally shot in an apparent accidental shooting at a friend's home in Queens. The tragic incident occurred when a 16-year-old boy mishandled a loaded firearm, resulting in a bullet striking Barkley in the head. Her mother, visibly distraught, lamented that Deaza had been actively working to raise awareness about gun violence through her school project. This incident underscores the broader issues of gun safety and the impact of youth violence in urban communities. The shooter has been charged with manslaughter and criminal possession of a weapon, highlighting the severe legal ramifications of such accidents.

Investigators are also probing the origins of the firearm, which had its serial number scratched off, complicating efforts to trace its ownership. Deaza's death is a stark reminder of the devastating consequences of gun violence, sparking conversations about the need for systemic changes. As her community mourns, the call for action against gun violence becomes ever more urgent.