Family speaks out after pregnant mother is killed in Pine Hills shooting

The Orange County Sheriff's Office has increase patrols in Pine Hills, after a young, pregnant mother was shot and killed while inside a car. 

The 21-year-old mother, identified as Imelda Francois, was fatally shot while near Dunsford and Gamble drives. Her infant son, Kameren Williams, and 13-year-old cousin, Dyanna Laurent, were were also injured from gunfire.  Three others inside the car, Imelda's 21-year-old boyfriend, a 15-year-old girl, and a 6-year-old boy, were uninjured.

Investigators are still gathering information to determine what happened.

"It's still a shock to all of us. We still can't believe she's gone," said  Ernest Lemaine, Imelda's cousin. "She was a sister, she was a cousin, a daughter , a mother-to-be, a mother."

"She was all about her child. She worked, she was trying to get back into school," explained cousin Emilia Lemaine.

Deputies believe that the shooting was targeted.  They say two men in a white Chevy Malibu got away after shooting into the car.

During a vigil on Tuesday, Pastor Kevin Cobaris said, "We pray where ever they are that they have enough conviction to turn themselves in."

Emilia added, "We're in desperate need of answers. That's all we need. Just come forward."

They have faith justice will be served.

"Whatever you do in the dark will come into the light no matter what. Rest in peace Tia. Rest in peace. We love you," Ernest said.

A $5,000 reward is being offered for information leading to an arrest. Call Crimeline at 800-423-TIPS (8477).

 

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