Aniya Sheppard Obituary, Death: Authorities have confirmed that the death of 20-year-old Aniya Sheppard, whose body was found along a Florida roadway, was the result of a “targeted attack.” The Brevard County Sheriff’s Office revealed that Sheppard’s body was discovered on Tuesday near Eber Boulevard and Buddy Drive in West Melbourne. The body was reported to police on Monday morning by someone at a nearby convenience store, who noticed what appeared to be a body on the side of the road.
When deputies arrived at the scene, they pronounced Sheppard dead. A first responder’s report indicated the severity of the injuries, noting that she suffered extensive head trauma. The authorities later confirmed that the shooting was not a random act. “Based on the preliminary investigation, it appears that the victim was the intended target of this violent attack,” stated the sheriff’s office in a release.
Sheppard’s body was found near the Pine Lake Estates trailer park, a quiet neighborhood where local resident Bob Smith reported hearing a gunshot around 6 a.m. He described the sound as distinct, saying, “I heard one shot. It was distinct enough that I’m pretty sure it was a bullet shot.” Smith, who had lived in Miami for 30 years, remarked that the community was typically peaceful and that gunshots were not expected in the area. “It’s very nice here,” he said. “I worked in Miami for 30 years so I was used to bullet shots, but here you don’t expect it.”
While police have yet to identify a suspect or a clear motive, Sheppard’s mother, Katina, shared that her daughter had been in an abusive relationship. In a GoFundMe campaign to raise money for a memorial, Katina described Aniya as having a “beautiful soul,” and someone who was humble and generous, always willing to help others. “She was troubled and in an abusive relationship,” Katina wrote, expressing her grief and desire to give her daughter a fitting memorial. “Aniya was shot and murdered on November 4th… Gone but never to be forgotten. We love you, Niya Poo!!!”
The investigation is still ongoing, and police are asking anyone with information to come forward. Agent Kevin Morris of the Brevard County Sheriff’s Office Homicide Unit can be reached at 321-633-8413, or anonymous tips can be submitted to Crimeline at 800-423-TIPS (8477). Those who contact Crimeline may be eligible for a reward, and their calls will remain confidential.