13-Year-Old Aymira Thomas Fatally Shot by Older Brother in Tragic Canton Township Incident
CANTON TOWNSHIP, MI — A close-knit family and shocked community in Canton grapple with heartbreak after 13-year-old Aymira Thomas was killed in a shooting at her family’s apartment on Tuesday, July 29. Authorities report that her 21-year-old brother is now in custody in connection with the fatal incident.
💔 Details of the Incident
The tragedy unfolded at approximately 2:30 p.m. in the Ridgeline at Canton apartment complex, located at the intersection of Joy Road and Honeytree Boulevard. Canton Township police responded swiftly and attempted life-saving efforts, but Aymira unfortunately succumbed to her injuries at the scene.
Her brother was arrested shortly after and is considered a person of interest in the ongoing investigation. Authorities have indicated that the incident may have been accidental and that there is no immediate threat to the broader community.
💬 Remembering Aymira
In the hours following the tragedy, Aymira’s older sister, Christina, shared heartfelt memories with FOX 2, describing her sister as confident, playful, and sweet:
“She was amazing. She had like, great confidence. Aymira was just like a goofball. She’s just so kind and so sweet.
Christina recounted the shock her family felt, remembering how just hours earlier they had been watching movies at home — a simple, ordinary day now forever altered.
Deputy Chief Joseph Bialy also expressed concern over firearm safety, citing the presence of an unsecured weapon in the home as a potential factor in the tragedy.
🕯️ Community Mourning & Response
Grief has rippled through the Canton community, as neighbors, classmates, and friends come to terms with the sudden loss. A GoFundMe page has been set up to assist the family with funeral expenses and other support during this unimaginable time.
Canton Township Police and local leaders are urging the community to honor Aymira’s memory by embracing safer firearm storage practices and reminding everyone how essential it is to treat every weapon with care and respect.
⚖️ Investigation Continues
The investigation remains active and ongoing. Authorities are conducting interviews, gathering forensic evidence, and reviewing any available surveillance footage. Officials have indicated that additional arrests are possible as the case moves forward.
No motive or detailed sequence of events has been confirmed yet. If you witnessed the incident or have any information—no matter how small—the Canton Police Department asks that you come forward to assist the investigation.
🌟 Honoring Aymira’s Memory
In remembering Aymira Thomas, we hold onto the brightness she brought into her family’s life. Her kindness, her playful spirit, and the simple joy she offered remain etched forever in the hearts of those who knew her.
Her family now faces the unthinkable — mourning a daughter, a sister, and a dreamer taken too soon by an accidental act of tragedy. In the midst of sorrow, they ask for privacy and prayers as they seek healing together.
Rest in peace, Aymira. May your memory inspire peace, safety, and compassion in every community you touched.