Gabbriana "Gabby" Boyster, a 16-year-old from Hillsboro, Missouri, was found dead in her bedroom with a gunshot wound to the head on Saturday afternoon—discovered by none other than her own mother, authorities said.
Background
According to the Jefferson County Sheriff's Office, Gabby was set to enter her junior year of high school when she was killed. Her mother, Candy G'Sell, told NBC affiliate KSDK that she had spoken with her daughter on Friday night before leaving the home. When G'Sell returned the following afternoon, she found Gabby in her bedroom, "sitting up," and immediately called 911.
Gabby's mother described the devastating loss of her daughter to friends who were present that night. "There's no relief. My baby is gone. What mother wants to bury their baby?" G'Sell told KSDK.
The Hillsboro School District expressed grief over the tragedy in a statement from Superintendent Dr. Jon Isaacson: "While words cannot take away the pain of this tragedy, we want our students, staff, and families to know they are not alone. We are committed to providing support and care for everyone who is grieving during this difficult time."
The Investigation
Police believe the fatal shooting occurred Friday night into early Saturday morning while Gabby was at home with friends. Detectives from the Jefferson County Sheriff's Office identified three juvenile suspects—all described as Gabby's friends—who had been present when she died.
All three juveniles were initially charged with abandonment of a corpse, authorities said. One suspect, whose name has not been released due to age restrictions, faces additional charges including involuntary manslaughter, unlawful use of a weapon, and armed criminal action. That juvenile remains in juvenile custody while the other two suspects have been released.
Investigators have not disclosed who owned the firearm allegedly used in the shooting. The case remains under active investigation by the Jefferson County Sheriff's Office.
Key Takeaways
- Gabbriana "Gabby" Boyster, 16, was found dead Saturday afternoon with a gunshot wound to the head at her Hillsboro, Missouri home
- Her mother, Candy G'Sell, discovered the teenager and called 911
- Three juvenile friends of Gabby were arrested in connection with her death
- All three face abandonment of a corpse charges; one suspect also charged with involuntary manslaughter, unlawful use of a weapon, and armed criminal action
- The additional suspect remains in juvenile custody while two others have been released
What's Next
The Jefferson County Sheriff's Office continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding Gabby's death. The case has been referred to prosecutors for review, and additional charges remain possible as the investigation develops. No court dates have been set.
Community members seeking counseling or support services can access resources through the Hillsboro School District.