QUEENS, N.Y. (PIX11) – In Queens, law enforcement officials are still actively searching for the murderer of Deshanna Donovan, a 21-year-old who was shot in her own home more than a week ago.
The case has left friends, family, and the community in shock as they seek answers and justice. “She was genuinely a sweet girl,” shared Patricia Suero, a family friend, in an emotional recount during PIX11 News coverage.
To honor her memory, a gathering took place in East Elmhurst where many mourned the loss of Donovan, who was just pursuing her dreams. According to the police, a masked individual followed her into her home before fatally discharging a weapon.
“We are appealing for the suspect to surrender,” stated Hiram Monserrate, a Democratic District Leader, at the vigil. He reassured that any necessary assistance, such as legal help, would be provided by the community.
Frank Taylor, who leads the Ditmars Boulevard Block Association, lamented, “It’s heartbreaking knowing she was only 21, hardly having lived a fraction of her life.”
The tragedy unfolded on Friday, September 12, at around 9:20 p.m., just after Donovan finished her shift at McDonald’s. Sources close to her revealed she had been outside chatting on the phone with a friend when the horrifying incident struck.
Confusion surrounds who could be the culprit, with family friends speculating. “Often, people assume it must be an ex-boyfriend or current partner responsible,” explained Talea Wufka. “But I genuinely believe it was a stranger – perhaps a stalker. Working in fast food, you tend to be friendly, and sometimes people can take that the wrong way.”
Donovan had just returned to Queens three months prior after spending a year with her father in South Carolina. Initial security footage released showed the suspect with a partially obscured face, but clearer images now surface, prompting calls for identification.
The authorities are reaching out to the public for any information that could lead to solving the case.
If you have any leads, please contact the police through Crime Stoppers at 1-800-577-TIPS (8477), go to crimestoppers.nypdonline.org, or download the NYPD Crime Stoppers app. You can also text 274637 (CRIMES) and enter TIP577. Spanish speakers can call 1-888-57-PISTA (74782).
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