CANTON TOWNSHIP, MI — A devastating tragedy has rocked the Canton community after 13-year-old Aymira Thomas was fatally shot Tuesday afternoon at the Ridgeline Apartments, located near Joy Road and Honeytree Boulevard. Her 21-year-old brother is currently in police custody as investigators work to determine the exact circumstances surrounding the shooting.
The incident occurred around 2:30 p.m. on July 29, inside the apartment complex in what neighbors describe as a normally quiet area. Canton Township police and emergency responders arrived within two minutes of the initial 911 call, attempting life-saving measures on the young girl. Despite their efforts, Aymira was pronounced dead at the scene.
According to Deputy Chief Joseph Bialy of the Canton Township Police Department, the investigation remains in its early stages, and authorities are still working to determine whether the shooting was accidental or intentional. “This is a sensitive and active case,” Bialy said. “We are collecting all relevant evidence and interviewing everyone involved.”
A Rapid and Tragic Response
Tragically, as police raced to the scene in response to the emergency call, one patrol car was involved in a collision at Cherry Hill and Lilley Roads. Officials report minor injuries from that crash, though no further details have been released.
The apartment complex, known as The Crossings of Canton, was locked down temporarily as authorities processed the scene and interviewed witnesses. Neighbors reported seeing a heavy police presence and multiple emergency vehicles blocking entrances to the property.
Community in Shock
The shocking loss of 13-year-old Aymira Thomas has left family members, neighbors, and classmates grieving. Though official details about Aymira’s life have not yet been shared publicly, tributes have begun to appear on social media, describing her as a “bright light,” a “sweet, funny, and caring girl,” and someone who was “loved deeply by her family and friends.”
“This breaks your heart,” one neighbor told reporters. “She was just a kid. To hear it might have been her own brother—it’s just unimaginable.”
Ongoing Investigation
Canton Police have confirmed that Aymira’s 21-year-old brother is currently in custody. His name has not yet been released, and no formal charges have been announced as of Wednesday morning. Investigators are working carefully to collect all necessary facts before determining how to proceed with the case.
Officials have not confirmed whether the firearm used in the shooting was legally owned, who it belonged to, or how it ended up in the apartment. The Canton Police Department is expected to release further details in the coming days as the investigation develops.
Meanwhile, grief counselors and trauma support teams are being made available to those affected by the tragedy, including residents of the apartment complex and students at local schools who knew Aymira.
Summary:
- Victim: Aymira Thomas, 13
- Suspect: 21-year-old brother (in custody)
- Date/Time: July 29, 2025, at 2:30 p.m.
- Location: Ridgeline Apartments (Crossings of Canton), near Joy Rd & Honeytree Blvd
- Status: Investigation ongoing
- Cause of death: Gunshot wound
- Response time: Public safety arrived within two minutes
- Additional incident: Police car crash during response at Cherry Hill & Lilley; minor injuries
Anyone with additional information is encouraged to contact the Canton Township Police Department.
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