Opelika Mourns 22-Year-Old Janiah Thomas as Police Hunt Murder Suspect Tempest Vanshay Reese
OPELIKA, AL — A wave of heartbreak and fear has settled over the city of Opelika following a brutal act of violence that claimed the life of 22-year-old Janiah Thomas in the early hours of Sunday morning. The tragedy has left a family devastated, a community shaken, and law enforcement racing against time to find the suspect.
Police responded to an emergency call just after midnight Sunday, where they discovered Janiah suffering from multiple stab wounds. Despite life-saving efforts by first responders, she was pronounced dead at the scene. Her death has been ruled a homicide, and authorities have since issued an arrest warrant for Tempest Vanshay Reese, 35, who is now wanted for murder in connection with the fatal stabbing.
Investigators believe the attack was not random and that Reese and Thomas knew each other, though the exact motive behind the senseless violence remains unclear. Reese is currently on the run, and police are urging anyone with information about his whereabouts to come forward immediately. He is considered armed and dangerous.
“This is a heartbreaking and tragic incident,” said Opelika Police Chief Shane Healey in a press conference. “We are doing everything in our power to bring the person responsible to justice. Our thoughts are with Janiah’s family, and we ask the community to support them during this unthinkable time.”
Remembering Janiah Thomas
Described by those who knew her as “bright, ambitious, and full of life,” Janiah Thomas had dreams of a future that were violently and abruptly cut short. She was a graduate of Opelika High School and had recently been exploring new career opportunities. Friends say she had a contagious laugh, a creative spirit, and a gentle heart.
“She was the kind of person who made you feel at ease,” said longtime friend Ashanti Moore. “She had this way of making you believe everything was going to be okay. That’s who she was — a source of calm, love, and joy.”
Her family is now left grappling with unspeakable grief and unanswered questions.
“She was my everything,” her mother said in a tearful statement. “My sunshine. My girl. And now she’s gone, just like that. I don’t understand how someone could take her away from us.”
A growing memorial now sits near the site of the tragedy, where candles, flowers, and handwritten notes mark a space of remembrance for a young woman whose life mattered deeply.
Ongoing Search for the Suspect
Tempest Vanshay Reese remains at large, and law enforcement officials are working closely with state and federal agencies to track him down. Police have urged residents to remain vigilant and report any sightings or suspicious activity. A reward may be offered for information leading to Reese’s arrest.
Residents of Opelika, a city known for its strong community ties and Southern charm, say the killing has left them feeling rattled.
“This kind of thing just doesn’t happen here,” said one neighbor. “We’re heartbroken, and we’re scared. But more than anything, we want justice for Janiah.”
Authorities are asking anyone with tips to contact the Opelika Police Department or submit information anonymously through CrimeStoppers.
As the search continues and the community reels, one thing is certain: the name Janiah Thomas will not be forgotten. Her life, though tragically cut short, will be remembered with love, and her story will fuel the call for justice.
Anyone with information on the whereabouts of Tempest Vanshay Reese is urged to call the Opelika Police Department at (334) 705-5200 or contact Central Alabama CrimeStoppers at 1-833-AL1-STOP.