Charlotte, NC — In a case that has shocked the community, 25-year-old Jacob Lanier pleaded guilty on November 12, 2025, to the murder of 3-year-old Asiah Figueroa.

The young child was tragically killed in a drive-by shooting, a moment that was captured on video and has since circulated, leaving the city and the nation grappling with the senselessness of the crime.

Asiah Figueroa, only three years old, became an innocent victim of violence that has left her family, friends, and the Charlotte community devastated.

The child’s life, filled with promise and joy, was abruptly cut short, and the case has prompted renewed calls for stronger measures to address gun violence in the city. Authorities say the video evidence was critical in confirming the events leading to Asiah’s death and played a significant role in securing Lanier’s guilty plea.

During the court proceedings, Lanier admitted to his involvement in the shooting, acknowledging the devastating consequences of his actions. Prosecutors emphasized the premeditated nature of the crime and the profound impact it had on Asiah’s family and the wider community.

They described the murder as not only a tragedy for the immediate family but also as a stark reminder of the dangers posed by indiscriminate acts of gun violence.

Community members have expressed deep sorrow and outrage over the incident. Vigils and memorials have been held to honor Asiah’s memory, with neighbors, educators, and local leaders calling for increased community engagement and preventative programs to protect children from similar tragedies.

The loss of such a young life has sparked an urgent conversation about public safety, neighborhood violence, and the responsibility of society to safeguard its most vulnerable members.

Asiah’s family has expressed a mixture of grief and relief following the guilty plea, acknowledging the importance of justice while continuing to mourn the loss of their beloved child.

They have called for unity in the community and a focus on preventing future tragedies through education, intervention, and support for families affected by violence.

Law enforcement officials have reiterated their commitment to holding perpetrators accountable and using every available resource to prevent similar crimes. They have also highlighted the role of surveillance, witness testimony, and community cooperation in ensuring that justice is served in cases of violent crime.

The guilty plea by Jacob Lanier brings a measure of legal closure, but the emotional and societal impact of Asiah Figueroa’s death will resonate for years to come.

Her life, though tragically short, has become a symbol of the urgent need for action against gun violence and the protection of children in Charlotte and beyond. Communities continue to mourn, remember, and advocate for change to honor her memory.