5-Year-Old Texas Girl Dies in Brother's Arms after Getting Shot – Her Family Pays a Touching Tribute

A single mother always took pride in her ability to care for and protect her two young kids. However, she was left heartbroken and devastated when a random act of violence robbed her of something precious and priceless—her five-year-old daughter.

Single parents often carry the weight of the world on their shoulders as they provide and look after their children. Amid the many challenges that life brings, they cling to the joy found in their little ones.

One mom from Houston, Texas, worked hard to give her son and daughter the best life possible. However, their lives changed forever while they were on their way to get ice cream.

THEY WERE IN DANGER

Kristena Watters picked up her kids from a 24-hour daycare service after her evening shift at a local restaurant. Before heading home, she regularly treated daughter Khamaya Donelson, 5, and son Khamani Donelson, 8, to ice cream.

The act of senseless violence had heartbreaking repercussions and would affect Watters and her son for the rest of their lives.

However, early in July 2022, their trip to the food store ended in disaster. Watters recalled the terrifying moment she realized her family was in danger and told them to "get down."

THE BROTHER HELD HIS SISTER

As the trio stopped at an intersection, an unknown person in a silver sedan opened fire. A few of the bullets hit their vehicle in the crossfire.

Khamaya was injured, and her brother held her throughout the ordeal. The siblings were best friends, and the young boy refused to give up on his sister. Watters revealed:

"[Khamani] broke down for the first time. He hasn't really cried since this happened, and he got shot too. He didn't feel the bullet wound. His sister died in his arms. That's his best friend."

IT WAS A NIGHTMARE

Sadly, Khamaya's injuries were too severe, and she passed away in the hospital. Watters was distraught and cried as she hoped for justice.

The mother said: "I'm just waiting to wake up from this nightmare." Watters revealed that she had one fear when she became a mom—failing her kids.

Holding back a flood of emotion, she explained that she had been raising her kids alone and was proud of the job she did. However, her fear of failing to protect her child came to life when little Khamaya was killed.

THE COMMUNAL SUPPORT

The family longed for answers and hoped the guilty parties would be apprehended. The act of senseless violence had heartbreaking repercussions and would affect Watters and her son for the rest of their lives.

Thankfully, the local community stepped up and helped the single mom in her time of need. She expressed immense gratitude for the countless strangers who offered assistance without expecting anything. Watters said:

"It feels good to know there are good people."

THE FAMILY'S TRIBUTE

In honor of Khamaya's life, which was taken too soon, the family hosted a BBQ. All of the proceeds would be used to help them lay the little girl to rest and move forward after the gut-wrenching tragedy.

The family covered mason jars with unicorns and sparkles—a few of Khamaya's favorite things. The details reminded them of her joyful spirit. Khamaya's grieving brother also made lemonade for his sister. Khamani said:

"My secret ingredient is always love because that's what they always say, especially for my sister Khamaya Donelson. You always need to put in genuine love, so people know that it's true."

A GoFundMe page was created to provide the family with financial support, and it described Khamaya as someone who was always "full of love and laughter." At the start of August 2022, close to $19,000 had been donated.

A PLEA FROM THE POLICE

Authorities asked the public for help in apprehending possible suspects. They needed witnesses to come forward, and Houston Police Department Chief Troy Finner added: "I'm calling up on my city."

He noted that investigators were busy with the case but needed help from community members who might have information. After the unimaginable loss, Watters would need lots of time to grieve and process the ordeal.

Our thoughts and prayers are with her and her son as they navigate this difficult time.

Click here for another story about a little boy who became an orphan after a shooting incident. His parents and sister were tragically killed during the devastating ordeal.