JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – Family members and friends of a young woman killed on Jacksonville’s Westside Tuesday night are devastated and desperate for answers.
Loved ones identified Courtney McCoy, 19, as the woman killed at the Valencia Way Apartments on Labelle Street. The complex was formerly known as Eureka Gardens.
Police have not announced an arrest, but have interviewed witnesses. Relatives and friends remember Courtney McCoy as caring and sweet.
“She was nice. She was cool,” said one of McCoy’s friends, who asked not to be identified.
According to police, McCoy was found shot inside a second floor apartment around 7:30 p.m. Tuesday. A friend said she was visiting someone close to her.
“They were just chilling, just like we always do," the friend said. "They do it every day.”
Jacksonville police said first responders took McCoy to the hospital for treatment, but doctors couldn't save her. Homicide detectives said they’ve spoken with several witnesses.
McCoy’s loved ones told News4Jax a gun went off inside a bedroom, though it's unclear how the firearm was discharged. They said she was with her boyfriend and other friends at the time.
Her grandmother noted she grew up just blocks away and worked at the Potter’s House Ministries. Now, they’re trying to raise money for her funeral, asking for donations.
LINK: Donation account for funeral expenses
Family and friends now seeking answers about what happened and justice for the life gone too soon.
“It was sad,” said the friend. “I hope the family is OK -- her grandma.”
The deadly shooting marks the 51st homicide in Jacksonville during 2019. That’s the highest number year-to-date since 2007.
Anyone with information about what happened is asked to call JSO at 904-630-0500 or First Coast Crime Stoppers anonymously at 1-866-845-TIPS.