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Balloon release remembers 14-year-old girl shot and killed

Family and friends of Kaleiah Dean gathered on Saturday to remember her life.

INDIANAPOLIS — Kaleiah Dean's family gathered in the parking lot where her body was found Thursday evening. A few days later, on Saturday, her loved ones gathered in the very same place to remember her life.

A life her family still can't believe is gone.

"It's just surreal. This is exactly where she was," said her father, Kevin Dean. 

The 14-year-old was one of two teens shot Thursday night. The other person, a 15-year-old boy, was found across the street. Paramedics took him to the hospital in serious condition. Kaleiah's family said they were told the shooting happened in a car.  

"It's senseless to be out here taking lives. We are gunning down each other like life doesn't matter anymore," said her aunt, Pastor Yvette Johnson.

RELATED: Kokomo man creates nonprofit for families of gun violence victims

Dean was a student at Arsenal Technical High School. Her family said she had a lively spirit.

"She was a bright child. Rambunctious, loose spirit, free spirit. She was good. I love her and miss her and miss her dearly " said Kevin.

"Very outgoing, charming, bright, intelligent. A whole future ahead of her," said Johnson.

According to the African American Coalition of Indianapolis, so far this year, at least 22 people under the age of 18 have been killed by gun violence.

Dean's uncle said the only thing that does make sense is keeping guns out of the hands of people who shouldn't have them. 

RELATED: African American Coalition of Indianapolis calls for action after uptick in youth violence

Police have not provided any suspect information or motive behind the shooting, leaving Dean's loved ones with so many questions. Questions that can only be answered by the person who pulled the trigger.

"Whatever the code of silence is out here on the street, if you see something, don't say nothing. I think you need to lay that down and step up to the plate, "said Johnson. 

Until her family gets answers, they'll continue to find ways to show Dean how much she's missed.

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