Who was Ja-Niyah? Family mourns 'unbearable' loss of 12-year-old girl who died in hotel pool tragedy
TUCKER, GEORGIA: The community is coming together to remember and honor Ja-Niyah, a 12-year-old girl who tragically drowned in a pool at the Holiday Inn Express on Crescent Centre Boulevard in DeKalb County on July 5. The pool area was adorned with purple and pink balloons as a tribute to Ja-Niyah, who lost her life just a few days ago.
Ja-Niyah's grandmother, Kingia Randall, described the past few days as incredibly challenging. "It's been hard. Difficult. Like unimaginable. Just not understanding but trying to do our best," said Randall. Brenda Pitts, Ja-Niyah's godmother, was present at the pool when the incident occurred and expressed the deep pain of the loss. "We've never had any tragedy... maybe a fall off the bike, fall off the scooter or something, but for something like this to happen, it's just totally unbearable," said Pitts.
Who was Ja-Niyah?
Ja-Niyah is remembered by many for her gentle spirit and infectious personality. The incident took place on Wednesday at around 8:20 pm, prompting a response from DeKalb County Fire and Rescue and the police. Ja-Niyah was found at the bottom of the pool and was later pronounced dead at the hospital.
Her grandmother, Randall, shared some endearing qualities about her, stating, "She always wants to be in the mirror. She always wants to talk to me when I'm having my time. So my time means it's our time for her. Ja-Niyah was partly shy, but when she warms up and gets to know you she's a free spirit. She likes to talk, she likes to dance," reported Yahoo.
Family returns to pool area to preserve Ja-Niyah's memories
Returning to the pool area for the first time since the incident, Pitts shared, "Being out here was not a place that I thought I would ever want to come back. But if it's just to give her memories, then I can do that." As Ja-Niyah's family makes funeral arrangements and finalizes burial plans, they are accepting donations to support them during this difficult time. Contributions can be made via Zelle or Cashapp using the number 678-973-7765.