CANTON, Mich. — A 13-year-old girl, Aymira Thomas, was fatally shot inside her family’s apartment on Tuesday, July 29, 2025, in a heartbreaking incident that has left the Canton community reeling. The shooting took place at approximately 12:24 p.m. at the Ridgeline at Canton Apartments, located near Joy Road and Honeytree Boulevard in Canton Township.
Canton’s 911 call center received reports of the shooting, prompting a swift response from police and emergency medical services. First responders arrived within minutes and attempted life-saving measures on the young girl, but despite their efforts, Aymira succumbed to her injuries at the scene.
Canton Township Police have identified Aymira’s 21-year-old brother as a person of interest in the case. He was taken into custody at the scene, with preliminary reports indicating that he may have been holding the firearm that discharged the fatal shot. Authorities are investigating whether the shooting was accidental, though no definitive determination has been made as the investigation remains ongoing.
Deputy Chief Joseph Bialy of the Canton Police Department addressed the tragedy, emphasizing the dangers of unsecured firearms in homes with children. “This is a devastating loss, regardless of the circumstances,” Bialy said. “Our hearts go out to the family as we work to determine exactly what happened.”
The scene outside the Ridgeline at Canton Apartments was marked by grief and tension, as dozens of family members gathered while investigators worked for hours to collect evidence and interview witnesses. Aymira’s sister, Christina, spoke to local media, describing her as a “goofball” with “great confidence” and a kind, sweet nature. The family has since opened a GoFundMe to honor Aymira’s memory and support them during this difficult time.
In a related incident, a Canton police vehicle responding to the 911 call was involved in a collision at the intersection of Cherry Hill and Lilley Roads, resulting in minor injuries. The police have assured the public that there is no ongoing threat to community safety, and the area around the apartment complex, which was closed for several hours, has since reopened.
The Canton Police Department continues its active and fluid investigation, withholding additional details about the circumstances of the shooting or the relationship between the victim and the person of interest until more information is confirmed. Authorities are urging anyone with relevant information to contact the Canton Police Department to assist in the investigation.
“As a community, we mourn the tragic loss of a young life,” the Canton Police Department said in a statement. “We are committed to a thorough and transparent investigation and will provide updates as they become available.”
