'She was a shining star': Community honors 14-year-old shot to death as TPD searches for suspect

TAMPA, Fla. - Nilexia Alexander’s life was cut short with no answers to explain why. Her family is heartbroken as they are now left to bury the 14-year-old. 

On Wednesday, her family and friends held a vigil to honor her life, as they continue pleading with the public for information.

Some of he teen's former teachers and principal gathered to remember what they call a bright light taken too soon.

"This is not easy. We love on our children at the school. They’re not just students. They’re our babies," Kaneshia Williams-Hall, a former teacher, said.

They recalled her time as a fifth grade patrol guard when she attended Sheehy Elementary School.

"She was a shining star with a great future ahead of herself and a caring heart," Delia Gadson, the principal, said. "And I just want to say that somebody out there knows where she was leading up to this event," 

It’s why they also issued a call to action during the memorial, handing out flyers and asking for people to share information that could lead investigators to the person responsible.

"You need to come forward. You should be ashamed of yourself. You need to understand that you have destroyed a family," Williams-Hall said.

Tampa investigators said they were called out to Floribraska Avenue last Friday after the 14-year-old was found shot on the side of the road just before 4 a.m.

Those who live in the area say that gunshots were heard around that time followed by sounds of a car speeding off, but investigators have said there are still many questions to be answered.

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The teen was reported as a runaway from her Temple Terrace home at the end of last month, leaving gaps as to who she was with or what happened before she was killed.

Her mother, Ashley Alexander, spoke out for the first time Tuesday. She said she believes someone out there has the answer to these questions.

"You shouldn't have to bury your child. I want justice and I want it sooner than later. Please. Please I beg the city. Help me find the person responsible for my baby's death," Ashley said during a press conference Tuesday.

Her mother also said that Nilexia was caring, loved music and loved to read. She said her daughter did not deserve what happened to her, adding that she’ll do whatever it takes to get justice.

On Wednesday, the family held a balloon launch and vigil at 6:00 p.m. on Floribraska Avenue to honor Nilexia’s life.

The Tampa Police Department is asking the public to give them a call if they have any information.