On December 7, 2025, at approximately 1:20 p.m., Ann Arbor police were called to a deadly shooting at an apartment building on the 1400 block of Pear Street. The victim, Chikylah Richardson, 17, a resident of Pittsfield Township, was discovered inside an apartment unit with a fatal gunshot injury and was declared deceased at the location.
Authorities believe the incident was targeted and isolated, representing the city’s second homicide of the year, following another shooting in September. During the initial investigation, a K9 unit located a firearm believed to have been used in the attack.
The suspect, a 17-year-old male whose identity has not been released, had already left the scene before law enforcement arrived. He was taken into custody without conflict around 11 a.m. on December 8 outside Ann Arbor during a prearranged meeting related to his probation. Police have confirmed that the suspect and Richardson were acquainted. The case is now being reviewed by the Washtenaw County Prosecutor’s Office as the inquiry continues.
Chikylah Richardson was a junior at a local high school, where she maintained her studies while participating in activities such as track and field, competing in regional competitions. A lifelong resident of Pittsfield Township, she took advanced English classes and dedicated summer hours to volunteering with community literacy initiatives. Family was central to her life; she shared a close bond with her parents and two younger siblings, frequently joining them on weekend visits to area parks.
Richardson had developed an interest in journalism, writing for her school’s newspaper on topics relevant to young people and aspiring to study communications at Michigan State University after finishing high school. Those who worked with her on the newspaper admired her thoughtful reporting, particularly on subjects related to mental well-being—a perspective informed by regular family conversations.
Outside of school, Richardson maintained an energetic daily rhythm, often starting her day with runs near the Huron River and spending evenings baking with her mother to prepare goods for school fundraising events. She enjoyed photography, taking pictures of cityscapes during drives with her family, and wrote poetry that she occasionally shared only with close friends.
In the wake of this tragedy, Ann Arbor schools have made counseling available to students coping with the loss, and memorials are being planned to honor Richardson’s inquisitive nature and considerate spirit.
