15-Year-Old Pleads Guilty To Killing Beloved Honor Roll Student And Cheerleading Captain

In April 2022, many residents of Mount Vernon, New York were at a citywide celebration after the Mount Vernon High School’s boys basketball team won state championships. Among them was 16-year-old JV cheer captain and honor roll student Kayla Green. As she left the event, a classmate stabbed her in both her back and her side, as reported by CBS New York. Though she was transported to a nearby possible, she unfortunately died from her wounds. Kayla’s best friend, who was present, had also been stabbed as well, but was able to recover from her injuries.

After the FBI assisted Mount Vernon police by using their technology to track her smartphone, the 15-year-old suspect was located and arrested. Green’s attacker, who has not been named due to her age, has since then remained in Westchester County custody. Though her reasons for her actions remain unclear, Green’s family have stated that the suspect has a history of bullying Kayla.

“Kayla was a beautiful big sister and a special young woman with dreams and ambitions of becoming a doctor one day,” said Shannae Haywood, a spokesperson for Green’s family. “She was a cheerleader, a captain, and an inspiration.”

On December 27th, more than 8 months after the stabbing a occurred, the suspect has pleaded guilty to first-degree manslaughter. According to People, she will be facing anywhere between of three to nine years in state prison after being sentenced January 24th.

“The defendant has taken responsibility for ending the life of Kayla Green, and now faces consequences for this tragic and devastating incident,” District Attorney Miriam E. Roach said in a statement. “We hope the families of all impacted by this senseless violence can begin the journey to healing.”