DeKalb County, Georgia – October 26, 2025 — A night meant for joy and celebration turned into heartbreak and unimaginable tragedy when Kinaya Hightower, a young woman celebrating her birthday, was shot and killed early Sunday morning at a gas station on Moreland Avenue in DeKalb County. She was an innocent bystander, caught in the crossfire of a shootout that erupted between individuals attending a late-night car meet-up.
According to the DeKalb County Police Department, officers were dispatched at approximately 2:27 a.m. after multiple reports of gunfire at the scene. When authorities arrived, they found a chaotic and devastating scene—spent shell casings scattered across the parking lot and Kinaya suffering from severe gunshot wounds. Emergency responders performed life-saving measures, but despite their efforts, she was pronounced dead at the scene.
Investigators say the violence began when an argument among several attendees escalated into an exchange of gunfire. Kinaya had no involvement in the dispute. She was simply in the wrong place at the wrong time—a young woman with her whole life ahead of her, celebrating another year of life surrounded by friends.
Her death has shaken the community to its core.
Friends and family describe Kinaya as a bright, spirited, loving young woman—someone whose laughter was infectious and whose presence uplifted everyone around her. She was known for her warm heart, her joy, and the way she made others feel seen and valued. Social media platforms have since been filled with tributes, memories, and expressions of deep sorrow.
“Kinaya didn’t deserve this,” one close friend shared. “She was celebrating her birthday. She was happy. She was loved. Someone’s reckless actions took her from us. Our hearts are broken.”
Witnesses described the scene as chaotic, with people running for cover and vehicles fleeing the area as shots rang out. Detectives are now reviewing surveillance footage from the gas station and nearby businesses, and interviewing those who were present, in hopes of identifying the individuals responsible.
“This is a senseless tragedy,” a spokesperson for the DeKalb County Police stated. “A life was lost that should never have been touched by violence. We are committed to bringing justice to this family.”
So far, no arrests have been made, and police believe more than one shooter may have been involved. Investigators are urging anyone with information to come forward—especially those who attended the meet-up.
Anyone with information is asked to contact:
- DeKalb County Police Homicide Unit
- Crime Stoppers Greater Atlanta (Anonymous Tip Line): 404-577-TIPS (8477)
As Kinaya’s family faces the overwhelming weight of grief, the community is rallying together to support them. Candlelight vigils, memorial tributes, and heartfelt messages are being shared—each one a testament to how deeply she was loved and how profoundly she will be missed.
Rest in peace, Kinaya Hightower.
Your laughter, your light, and your love will forever live in the hearts of those who knew you.
You deserved a lifetime of birthdays—
And we will remember your name with love, honor, and the fight for justice.
