Community Mourns Pregnant 16-Year-Old Zariah Dodd in Phoenix Shooting

Community Mourns Pregnant 16-Year-Old Zariah Dodd in Phoenix Shooting

PHOENIX, AZ — The Phoenix community is grappling with the heartbreaking loss of 16-year-old Zariah Finley Dodd, a pregnant teen whose life was tragically cut short in a shooting on July 5, 2025. Zariah, who was approximately 22 weeks pregnant with her daughter, was found deceased at Marivue Park near 55th Avenue and Osborn Road, just before 6 a.m. that morning. Both Zariah and her unborn child, Zaloni, were victims of this senseless act of violence.

A Life Cut Short

Zariah had been under the care of the state and had lived in around 20 group homes throughout her life. Despite the challenges she faced, she was described by those who knew her as intelligent, brave, and resilient. Richilyn Fox, who had been Zariah’s kinship caregiver and had hoped to adopt her, remembered her as a young woman with a bright future ahead. Earlier this year, Zariah had become pregnant, and her baby shower was scheduled for September. She had expressed both excitement and apprehension about becoming a mother at such a young age.

The Night of the Tragedy

On the evening of July 4, Zariah left her group home in Surprise, Arizona, around 8 p.m., telling staff she was going for a walk. She was reported missing shortly after midnight on July 5. Her body was discovered nearly 12 hours later in Phoenix. The circumstances surrounding how she arrived at Marivue Park remain unclear, and her family believes she may have been abandoned there.

Community Response and Calls for Justice

The loss of Zariah has sparked outrage and calls for justice from her family and the community. Her father, Sylquayn Bernard, expressed disbelief over the situation, stating, “I don’t believe she was murdered there. I believe she was dumped there.” The family is seeking answers and accountability, not only for Zariah’s death but also for the systemic failures that may have contributed to her tragic end.

Richilyn Fox has vowed to honor Zariah’s memory by establishing a home in her name, dedicated to supporting young girls who have experienced similar hardships. “That home is gonna shine light on every young girl who’s experienced grooming, who’s experienced things that are horrible to speak,” Fox said.

Ongoing Investigation

Phoenix Police are actively investigating the circumstances surrounding Zariah’s death. No arrests have been made, and authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward. The community remains hopeful that justice will be served and that Zariah’s story will lead to meaningful changes in the system that failed her.

Memorial Services

A funeral service for Zariah and her unborn daughter is scheduled for Saturday, August 2, 2025, at 11 a.m. at Greater Hope Christian Church, located at 2927 N 35th Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85017. A vigil was held at Marivue Park, where Zariah’s body was found, to honor her life and raise awareness about the issues affecting vulnerable youth in the foster care system.