Greenville Teen Dies in Accidental Shooting: Investigation Underway in Tragic Loss of 17-Year-Old Kiari Cunningham
GREENVILLE, NC — July 26, 2025 — A community is in mourning following the tragic death of 17-year-old Kiari Cunningham, who died Wednesday afternoon from a gunshot wound sustained at an apartment on Grovemont Drive in Greenville. Authorities believe the incident was accidental and involved her 17-year-old boyfriend.
Emergency services responded to the scene shortly after 1:00 p.m. on July 23, following a report of a shooting. When officers arrived at the residence, they found Kiari critically injured from a single gunshot wound. Life-saving measures were immediately initiated at the scene, and she was transported to ECU Health Medical Center, the region’s top trauma center. Despite the best efforts of medical personnel, Kiari was later pronounced dead at the hospital.
Preliminary Findings Point to Accidental Discharge
According to the Greenville Police Department, early evidence suggests that the shooting may have been accidental. Kiari’s 17-year-old boyfriend, who was present at the time of the incident, reportedly handled the firearm when it discharged. Police said he remained at the scene, was cooperative with officers, and has been detained for questioning. However, no criminal charges have been filed as of yet.
“This is a tragic case involving two teenagers, and our investigators are treating it with the utmost seriousness and compassion,” said a spokesperson for Greenville Police. “All indications point to an accidental discharge, but a full investigation is still underway.”
Officials confirmed that the firearm has been recovered and will be analyzed as part of the ongoing investigation. Detectives are also conducting interviews with potential witnesses and reviewing the circumstances surrounding how the firearm was obtained and stored.
Family and Friends Remember Kiari
Kiari Cunningham was described by friends and family as a kind-hearted, bright, and joyful young woman with dreams for her future. Her sudden and senseless loss has left her loved ones heartbroken.
“She had a light about her,” a family friend shared. “She made people feel seen and heard. This shouldn’t have happened.”
In the days since the incident, classmates, teachers, and members of the Greenville community have posted tributes to Kiari on social media, sharing photos, memories, and messages of support for her grieving family. Several friends are working with the family to organize a candlelight vigil in her honor.
Community Response and Concerns About Gun Safety
The tragedy has sparked renewed conversations around gun safety and secure firearm storage, especially in households with minors. While the shooting remains under investigation, local advocacy groups have urged families to take preventive measures and educate young people about the dangers of firearms.
“This is the kind of tragedy that no family should ever have to experience,” said a representative from a local chapter of Moms Demand Action. “We must work harder to prevent firearms from getting into the hands of teens, even accidentally.”
Law enforcement officials are also reminding gun owners of the importance of locking and securing weapons and encouraging parents to speak openly with their children about firearm safety and responsibility.
Next Steps in the Investigation
The Greenville Police Department is continuing to gather information and evaluate whether charges may be appropriate in the future. The case will be reviewed by the Pitt County District Attorney’s Office once the investigation concludes.
Anyone with information that could assist detectives is encouraged to call Greenville Police at 252-329-4315 or report tips anonymously through Crime Stoppers.
A Life Remembered
As her family begins to plan funeral services, Kiari is being remembered not for how her life ended, but for the love, warmth, and hope she brought to those around her.
“Kiari was a daughter, a friend, and a soul with so much potential,” a relative said. “We will miss her every single day.”
Funeral arrangements are expected to be announced in the coming days.