AMERICUS, Ga. (WALB) — Family, community leaders and supporters gathered at Americus City Hall Friday, Feb. 6, to honor Peyton “Penny” Roberts, the 5-year-old killed nearly one year ago when she was caught in crossfire at Eastview Apartments.

On Feb. 8, 2025, Penny was at her home playing outside when gunfire erupted at the Eastview Apartments. She was struck by a stray bullet during the shooting. 19-year-old Jotavis Leverette was also killed in the shooting, and another person was injured.

Police say the violence “erupted over nothing,” leaving an unintended victim to pay the ultimate price.

The city of Americus proclaimed Feb. 6 as Peyton “Penny” Roberts Day, declaring her “Forever Five.”

“We tragically lost her in a way that was unimaginable,” her aunt, Shana Roberts, said. “She was home. She lost her life in an instant. The senseless act of violence didn’t even have to take place.”

Penny’s grandmother, Kenedria Roberts, described their close bond: “We did everything together. I was her personal hairstylist. I was her everything.”

Penny’s mother, Nakaya Jernigan, says the year has been filled with anger and slow healing, but she now feels some relief.

“Giving her this day means a lot,” Jernigan said. “I hope every year people come out and celebrate her and continue to push for justice.”

Penny’s death highlights a persistent crisis of gun violence in communities. In Americus, city leaders said they have been working with local partners to address gun violence, but acknowledged the problem requires sustained, community-wide effort.

“Government can’t do it alone,” Travis Rush, the Americus mayor, said. “It takes the entire community — faith leaders, educators, law enforcement, families — all playing their role.”

Three people were charged with murder for last year’s shooting.

“There are other ways to work out your problems,” Shana Roberts said. “The first thing should not be picking up a gun. You don’t know who’s around when you open fire.”

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