In Loving Memory of Shaniyah Monae Kazee
The Martinez community is mourning the tragic and heartbreaking loss of 19-year-old Shaniyah Monae Kazee, a young woman whose life was taken far too soon in an unimaginable act of violence. On what should have been an ordinary Tuesday afternoon along Fig Tree Lane, the world changed forever for everyone who knew and loved her. Today, we honor her memory with the tenderness and compassion her life deserves.
A Life Full of Promise Cut Tragically Short
Shaniyah was more than a news headline. She was a daughter, a girlfriend, a friend, and a bright young woman with her whole future still ahead of her. Described by her loved ones as joyous, kind, and full of spirit, she carried a warmth that made people feel seen and valued. She had dreams—dreams that now remain unfulfilled but will never be forgotten by those who held her close.
Her sudden and violent passing has left a deep ache in the hearts of the Martinez community, one that words alone cannot heal. Yet her memory lives on in every smile she inspired and every person she touched.
Her Final Moments: A Witness Speaks
What unfolded that afternoon was something no one should ever have to witness. Neighbor A’Livia Meredith, who happened upon the scene, described a moment filled with fear, chaos, and sorrow.
Meredith said she heard “all the commotion” and stepped outside to see Shaniyah lying in the parking lot, bleeding and struggling to hold on. Shaniyah’s boyfriend was at her side, desperately trying to help her, holding her wound, and whispering words meant to keep her present—to give her strength to stay.
“I was just telling her, ‘Stay with us,’” Meredith recalled, her voice breaking at the memory. “She was going in and out, like here and not here. I’ve never seen that.”
In those gut-wrenching minutes, strangers and loved ones stood united in one shared hope: that Shaniyah would survive.
But despite every effort, Shaniyah passed away at John Muir Walnut Creek hospital, surrounded by first responders who fought to save her life.
The Unthinkable
Police say the person responsible for Shaniyah’s death was her own mother, 36-year-old Brittney Evanna Kazee, who was arrested shortly after the incident and charged with homicide. Her bail was set at $1 million.
Neighbors have been shaken to their core by the news. “It’s hard to even really think about,” one neighbor said. “Then you find out a mom can do that.”
Meredith added, “It’s very sad. It’s real sad.” The tragedy has left residents grieving not only Shaniyah’s death but the painful circumstances surrounding it.
A Community United in Grief
While investigations continue and questions remain unanswered, one truth stands firm: Shaniyah’s life mattered. She was loved. She deserved more—so much more—than the violence that stole her from the world.
This tragedy has brought the Martinez community closer as they seek comfort, healing, and ways to honor Shaniyah’s memory. Vigils, quiet prayers, and compassionate conversations echo throughout the complex, each one a reminder that her loss has deeply touched many.
Authorities urge anyone with information to contact MPD Detective Rubio at 925-372-3454 or at erubio@cityofmartinez.org as the investigation remains active.
Forever in Our Hearts
As the community grieves, we hold onto the beauty of who Shaniyah was:
✨ A young woman with endless potential.
✨ A life filled with love, laughter, and dreams.
✨ A spirit that cannot be erased or forgotten.
May her memory bring comfort to those who loved her, and may her story remind us of the preciousness of life and the importance of compassion in the face of unimaginable pain.
Rest in peace, sweet Shaniyah.
You will never be forgotten. 🌹
