GALVESTON, Texas (September 12, 2025) — A tragic family incident has shaken the Galveston community after police say 16-year-old fatally shot her mother, 34-year-old Tiamoya Moore, Thursday evening at a home in the 5100 block of Avenue Q.
According to Galveston Police Chief Doug Balli, officers were dispatched to the residence at approximately 7:49 p.m. after receiving multiple 911 calls reporting gunfire and a person suffering from multiple gunshot wounds.
When officers — including Officer Amanda Lewis and Sergeant Robert Hernandez — arrived, they found Moore critically injured inside the home. Police provided emergency medical assistance until Galveston EMS paramedics John Martinez and Kelly Dawson transported her to the UTMB emergency room. Despite their life-saving efforts, Moore was pronounced dead at the hospital by Dr. Michael Tran.
Witnesses at the scene told investigators that the suspected shooter was Moore’s teenage daughter. The girl initially fled the home on foot, prompting a search of the surrounding neighborhood.
While Detective Carla Johnson and her team processed the scene, the 16-year-old suspect returned to the residence and surrendered. She was taken into custody without incident by Officer Lewis. A firearm believed to have been used in the shooting was recovered nearby by crime scene technician David Nguyen.
The teen is currently being held at the Jerry J. Esmond Juvenile Justice Center on a murder charge. Her name has not been released because of her age.
Neighbors described the area as overwhelmed with flashing lights and heavy police presence. Maria Gonzales, who lives across the street, said she was stunned by the news. “You never expect something like this to happen right next door, especially between a mother and her child,” she said. “It’s heartbreaking.”
Detective Johnson stated that the case remains under active investigation as officers continue to gather evidence and interview witnesses. “This was a devastating scene,” she said. “We are working diligently to determine what led to this tragedy.”
Community leaders, including Pastor Jerome Walker of New Hope Baptist Church, expressed sorrow. “This is a tragedy on multiple levels — a mother has lost her life, and a young girl is now facing the rest of her future in the justice system,” Pastor Walker said.
As the investigation continues, family and friends are mourning the loss of Tiamoya Moore, remembered as a devoted mother, daughter, and friend.
Authorities urge anyone with information to contact the Galveston Police Department’s Homicide Division.
Leave a Reply