Tragedy in Canton: 23-Year-Old Brother Charged in Fatal Shooting of 13-Year-Old Sister, Aymira Thomas
CANTON, MICHIGAN — A heart-wrenching tragedy has shaken the community of Canton, Michigan, where 13-year-old Aymira Thomas was fatally shot in what authorities are calling a preventable and negligent incident. Her 23-year-old brother, Jay-Veon McKinney, is now facing criminal charges in connection with her death, which occurred on July 29, 2025, at an apartment in the 8300 block of Honey Lane.
According to the Wayne County Prosecutor’s Office, McKinney was inside the home with his two younger sisters when the incident occurred. He was reportedly playing with two pistols and handling them in a grossly negligent manner. One of the firearms discharged, striking 13-year-old Aymira Thomas in the chest. Responding officers found the young girl deceased at the scene, the result of a single gunshot wound.
Charges Filed
McKinney has been formally charged with the following:
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Involuntary Manslaughter
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Felony Firearm
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Careless Discharge Causing Death
During his arraignment on Friday, McKinney entered a not-guilty plea through his defense. Judge James Plakas of the 35th District Court initially ordered a bond of $500,000. However, he stated that the bond would be amended to a $500,000 unsecured personal bond once McKinney is placed on home confinement and fitted with a GPS tether. Conditions of release were not publicly disclosed in full but are expected to include restrictions on firearms and contact with minors.
At one point during the hearing, McKinney’s family asked if he could attend Aymira’s funeral, a request denied due to logistical complications and security concerns.
A Preventable Loss
In a statement following the arraignment, Wayne County Prosecutor Kym Worthy emphasized the avoidable nature of the shooting.
“The alleged actions of this defendant were dangerous and criminal. Overwhelmingly, most people do not want their loved ones to lose their lives. Their actions can make that a reality. We will keep pushing this message because this child’s death was completely preventable,” said Worthy.
The sentiment was echoed by stunned community members and grieving family, many of whom are struggling to make sense of the loss. The family has launched a GoFundMe campaign to help cover funeral expenses for Aymira, a young girl described as bright, kind-hearted, and full of promise. The crowdfunding campaign has received an outpouring of support from locals and strangers alike who are devastated by the circumstances.
Legal Proceedings Ahead
McKinney’s probable cause conference is scheduled for August 14, 2025, and a preliminary examination will follow on August 22. If convicted, McKinney could face significant prison time, though the charges suggest that prosecutors are treating the case as one rooted in gross negligence rather than premeditated intent.
The case is already sparking broader conversations about gun safety, responsible ownership, and the dangers of careless handling of firearms, especially in homes with children present. Advocates are urging lawmakers and the public to push for more robust education and legislation surrounding firearm storage and usage.
A Community Mourns
Aymira Thomas’s death has left a profound void not only within her family but also in the wider Canton community. Teachers, classmates, neighbors, and friends are grieving the loss of a girl whose life was just beginning. Local organizations are planning a candlelight vigil in her memory in the coming days.
As the legal process unfolds, the Thomas family is left to cope with the unimaginable—mourning the loss of a beloved daughter and sister while simultaneously navigating the legal ramifications of a tragedy that occurred within their own home.
Authorities are urging all gun owners to store firearms securely, avoid displaying or “playing” with them in front of children, and to treat every weapon as loaded. This devastating case serves as yet another reminder that one moment of irresponsibility can result in a lifetime of grief.
