On May 22, 2021, at approximately 11:36 p.m., 18-year-old Jazmiah Zyri Nelson was fatally shot while riding a four-wheeler with two acquaintances in the 600 block of Pomonkey Way, La Plata, Maryland. The Charles County Sheriff’s Office continues to investigate the Jazmiah Nelson shooting, offering a reward of up to $10,000 for information leading to an arrest. Detectives believe the incident was not random and are urging the community to provide tips to help solve the case.

The Incident

The Jazmiah Nelson shooting occurred late at night in a residential area lined with townhomes. Nelson and her group were riding through the neighborhood when gunfire erupted. Nelson was struck in the upper body and was airlifted to the University of Maryland Shock Trauma Center in Baltimore, where she succumbed to her injuries hours later. A second young woman in the group was grazed by a bullet but was treated at a local hospital and released. The Charles County Sheriff’s Office has stated that the Jazmiah Nelson shooting does not appear to be a random act, suggesting a targeted motive, though no suspects have been publicly identified.

Investigation and Reward

Detectives, led by Detective J. Worley, are actively pursuing leads in the Jazmiah Nelson shooting. The investigation has spanned over four years, with authorities emphasizing that community input is critical to cracking the case. Charles County Crime Solvers is offering a cash reward of up to $10,000 for information that leads to the arrest and indictment of the suspect. Tipsters can remain anonymous by contacting Crime Solvers at 1-866-411-TIPS, submitting tips online at www.charlescountycrimesolvers.com or using the P3Intel mobile app. Detective Worley can also be reached directly at 301-609-6518 for those with relevant information.

Community Impact and Call to Action

The Jazmiah Nelson shooting has left a lasting impact on her family and the La Plata community. Nelson, described by her mother, Crystal Pinkney, as an outgoing young woman who loved to dance, draw, and cheer, was a mother to a two-year-old daughter. A GoFundMe page titled “Justice for Jazmiah” raised over $10,000 to help cover funeral costs, reflecting community support. Authorities are urging residents to share any details, no matter how small, that could help solve the Jazmiah Nelson shooting. “Someone in the community knows what happened,” the sheriff’s office stated in a recent appeal, encouraging the public to keep the case in the spotlight.

Anyone with information is encouraged to act promptly. Tips can be submitted anonymously, and the $10,000 reward underscores the urgency of resolving this tragic case.


David M. Higgins II is an award-winning journalist passionate about uncovering the truth and telling compelling stories. Born in Baltimore and raised in Southern Maryland, he has lived in several East...

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