JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – Loved ones are searching for answers after a woman was found dead of an apparent gunshot wound in a Woodstock home on Friday.
Family identified her as 31-year-old as Sharmeka Jackson. They told News4JAX Jackson had just celebrated her 31st birthday on July 21, the day before she was shot to death inside a home on Prospect Street.
Jackson was a mother of three and a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA). She also owned and ran a small business called “Meka’s Creations.”
Jackson’s cousin, Shatera Coakley, told News4JAX they want answers and closure.
“She was working better for her and getting her life together for her kids,” Coakley said. “She was a kind-hearted person. She would give you the shirt off her back if she knew you needed it -- she was always laughing and smiling.”
Loved ones are unsure why Jackson was at the Woodstock home. It’s unclear who lives at the address, but neighbors told News4JAX they frequently see people coming and going.
“She didn’t deserve this,” Coakley said.
According to the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office “Calls for Service” log, police have been called to the home 10 times in the past year for auto theft recovery and domestic incidents.
“JSO has told me they have gotten closer to the investigation, we should have some updates by the end of the week,” Coakley said.
Jackson’s father, Jermaine Jackson, said he is in disbelief.
“I’m a parent that has to bury his child,” he said. “When I tell y’all and every one of y’all that know me, hear me real closely, do not use my daughter as your excuse to do something that you have no business doing. “Stop killing people.”
Coakley had a message for the shooter.
“You took her from her kids, you took her from her family,” Coakley said. “Just turn yourself in. She wasn’t that type of person. She wouldn’t harm a fly.”
No suspects or arrests have been made. A candlelight vigil will be held on Friday at 5:30 p.m. at Memorial Park 1620 Riverside Avenue to remember Sharmeka Jackson.
Anyone with information about the case is asked to call the Sheriff’s Office at 904-630-0500. To remain anonymous, contact First Coast Crime Stoppers at 1-866-845-TIPS (8477) or submit a tip online.