Family of 9-year-old shot in drive-by shooting still seeking justice

CINCINNATI – Exactly one year after the murder of nine-year-old Da’Myiah Barton-Pickens, her family is still waiting for justice.

The Silverton girl was shot and killed in a drive-by shooting at her grandmother’s home. Officials said she was hit by one of at least thirty bullets that the sheriff said were likely intended for a family member who was not home.

On Wednesday, dozens of family members and friends gathered in the shadow of the Hamilton County Courthouse and Justice Center to march in her honor.

Family members wearing pink T-shirts reading “Forever 9” said the speed at which the justice system works is emotionally difficult.

“It’s hard to be so patient when you’re frustrated,” said her mother, Danieka Pickens. “I’ll never feel good about myself again if I keep my heart, but I have to show for it.”

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Court records show Demario Williams pleaded guilty to tampering with evidence, carrying a concealed weapon, assault with a vehicle and failure to stop after an accident in connection with the shooting last month. He was sentenced to 3.5 years in prison.

Two other defendants, Qasseem Dixon and Ryan Brown, are scheduled to appear in court next week.

The family said they have attended every court hearing so far.

“We’re trying to be stubborn. Just let them know that we’re focused, that this is what we want, and that we’re going to come forward any time we want to get justice. No matter how long it takes,” Pickens said.

The pain of the nine-year-old’s death is still fresh for her family. Her 12-year-old cousin Kelsie Pickens fought back tears and said her energy lit up the room and she “always helped people when they were at their lowest.”

Her aunt Dorshika said she does not normally bring her children to court, but today the focus was on using her niece’s story to bring an end to violence in the community.

“I believe it is our duty to speak up and raise our voices, not just for our children, but for the community, period,” Dorshika said.

“We are here together, we are here as one. Because if we become one, maybe we can somehow achieve results,” Danieka said.