When I had no one, I always had her.” Those words, shared by a close friend, capture the heart of who Justice Deas was to the people who loved her. From middle school onward, Justice was a constant source of strength, loyalty, and comfort. When others were unkind, she stood firm. When someone felt alone, she showed up. To those in her circle, Justice wasn’t just a friend—she was family.

Justice is remembered as a beautiful, talented, and deeply caring young woman whose laughter could brighten even the hardest days. She carried a vibrant energy, always smiling, always ready to have fun, and always eager to lift others up. Her presence brought warmth and joy, and she had a natural way of making people feel seen and valued.

A student at Edison Success Academy, Justice had big dreams for her future. She spoke often about her goals and the life she hoped to build, filled with purpose and possibility. Those dreams, so full of promise, were tragically cut short far too soon.

In the early hours of Saturday, January 10, police responded to a 911 call reporting a shooting. Officers found Justice inside her home suffering from a gunshot wound. Despite their efforts, she was pronounced dead at the scene. She was just 17 years old.

Also present in the home was a 17-year-old boy, described as her boyfriend, who has since been arrested and charged in connection with Justice’s death. The investigation continues as a community grapples with grief, shock, and unanswered questions.