Khadija Derry, 22: Woman Shot & Killed While Sitting In Her Car
A student from Texas was shot and killed in 2023. An update has been made in the case as police announce an arrest.
Loved ones of Khadija Derry are hoping investigators and the community of Converse, Texas, will unite to help find the perpetrator responsible for the 22-year-old's callous murder. Khadija was reportedly sitting in her vehicle just outside of her home when two suspects approached and opened fire in 2023. According to her family, Khadija was shot 20 times, prompting both the Secret Service and FBI to get involved in the case.
Further, police shared that the shooters used "two high-caliber, semi-automatic rifles" in the "ambush-style" fatal assault, which is believed to have been a targeted hit. According to KENS 5 News, "the U.S. Marshals Service's Lone Star Fugitive Task Force was able to link the suspect to a local gang known by law enforcement for its involvement in armed robberies, narcotics trafficking and homicides."
More About Khadija Derry
Khadija's mother, Kuquanda Perkins, fondly remembered her daughter's infectious smile. "She was loved and she was loving," said Kuquanda. "She would give you that same love in return." The Sam Houston High School graduate became a college athlete. Khadija would spend time with athletes at her former school and was said to have had a particular love for basketball.
"I've prayed for justice. I wanted to see somebody be arrested," she added. “I walk around every day and it may look like it's all together, but inside, I'm shattered and broken into pieces. There is no conviction that will ever ease the pain. But it does help to give some closure, just to know that somebody's gonna pay for what they did to my baby."
Update In The Case
Police reportedly identified two suspects earlier in the investigation, but one was killed in April 2024. Later, a juvenile suspect was arrested in San Antonio, approximately 18 miles away. They were not named in reports, but it was stated they had gang ties.
“Apprehending violent, dangerous fugitives is one of the U.S. Marshals Service’s primary missions,” said Susan Pamerleau, U.S. marshal for the Western District of Texas. “It is deeply troubling that a juvenile was identified as a suspect in such a brutal and calculated murder, one that demonstrated a blatant disregard for human life. Our deputies remain committed to working alongside our local law enforcement partners to bring to justice anyone who commits violence in the Alamo City.”
Anyone with information that may help in this case is urged to contact the Converse Police Department at 210-658-2322.
Please share this story about Khadija Derry to help bring justice for her family. She is our sister, and her life matters.
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