Family Speaks Out After Tragic Deaths of 2-Year-Old A’Layah Joyner and Three Women in Perry, Georgia Home: Relatives Demand Answers from DFCS and Raise Funds for Funeral Expenses
PERRY, GA — April 14, 2025 — A heart-wrenching tragedy has left a family devastated after 2-year-old A’Layah Joyner and three women were found dead in a Perry, Georgia, home on April 10, 2025. The victims, including A’Layah, her mother, her aunt, and another unidentified woman, were discovered after a welfare check was requested by concerned family members. Authorities have launched an investigation into the deaths, but the exact circumstances are still unclear. The family, in mourning, is now speaking out, seeking justice for their loved ones, particularly for the young child whose life was tragically cut short.
The Tragic Discovery
Law enforcement officers arrived at the residence located in the 200 block of Maple Street in Perry, Georgia, on the evening of April 10, 2025, after a welfare check was requested. Upon entering the home, officers found the bodies of A’Layah Joyner, her mother, her aunt, and a third woman. Investigators from the Perry Police Department and the Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI) have confirmed the discovery but have not yet released the causes of death for the four victims.
The investigation into the deaths is still ongoing, and authorities have not ruled out the possibility of foul play. However, no arrests have been made at this time, and the GBI is working closely with local law enforcement to determine exactly what led to this tragic loss of life.
Family’s Heartfelt Plea for Answers
A’Layah’s aunt and godmother, who have been left reeling by the loss of their young relative, have shared their grief and frustration with the public. In emotional interviews, they revealed that they had made repeated efforts to gain custody of A’Layah before the tragic incident but were never contacted by the Georgia Division of Family and Children Services (DFCS), despite their concerns for the child’s safety.
“We reached out to DFCS multiple times,” said the godmother, her voice trembling with emotion. “We wanted to get A’Layah into our care, but no one ever responded to us. Now, this is what has happened. We have to live with that.”
The family believes that if DFCS had acted on their requests, A’Layah might still be alive today. They are now demanding a thorough investigation into the agency’s actions—or lack thereof—in relation to their custody attempts.
“We want answers, and we want accountability,” the aunt added. “A’Layah deserved so much better.”
Fundraising Campaign for Funeral Costs
Amid their grief, the family is focusing on ensuring that A’Layah is given a proper funeral. To help cover the funeral expenses, they have launched an online GoFundMe campaign. As of April 14, 2025, the family has raised over $5,000 of their $10,000 goal, with many community members stepping forward to support them during this incredibly difficult time.
The campaign, which describes A’Layah as a “beautiful soul taken too soon,” encourages people to donate in order to give the young girl a dignified burial. The family has expressed their gratitude for the outpouring of support from the local community and beyond.
“We are so grateful for everyone who is helping us through this,” said the godmother. “This is something no one should ever have to go through, but we know we’re not alone. We feel the love from all those who are supporting us.”
Vigil and Community Support
As the investigation continues, the Perry community has come together in solidarity with the grieving family. A vigil in honor of A’Layah and the three women who died with her is planned for April 17, 2025, at Perry City Park. The event will serve as a way for the community to mourn the loss and show their support for the family during this tragic time.
“We are all heartbroken by this tragedy,” said Martha Ellis, a neighbor of the family. “A’Layah was such a sweet little girl, and this has left all of us devastated. We stand with the family and want to show them that they’re not alone.”
Investigation Continues
While authorities have not yet confirmed the causes of death, the Perry Police Department, along with the Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI), is actively investigating the incident. Law enforcement has promised to provide updates as more details become available. The family is holding out hope for justice and answers in the coming days.
“Justice needs to be served for A’Layah and the other women,” the aunt said. “We won’t rest until we know what happened and why no one helped her when we reached out.”
How to Help
Those wishing to assist the family can donate to the GoFundMe campaign to help cover funeral costs. Details of the vigil and other ways to contribute are available through local news outlets and the family’s fundraising page.
For the latest updates on the investigation, please follow local news sources and official statements from the Perry Police Department and GBI. The family continues to seek justice, accountability, and closure as they navigate this painful time.