Jennira Roundtree, a beloved community leader and activist, was fatally stabbed on January 7 while reportedly trying to shield her teenage daughter during a violent brawl involving approximately 20 women in #NewYorkCity.
The deadly confrontation unfolded at NYCHA’s West Brighton Houses—the same housing complex where Roundtree organized neighborhood events aimed at fostering unity and support.
According to the New York Daily News, Roundtree, 34, was stabbed twice in the chest and slashed in the stomach with a sharpened umbrella after stepping into the chaos to protect her 16-year-old daughter, who was caught in the melee. Despite being rushed to a nearby hospital, she succumbed to her injuries shortly after arrival.
“An argument, I don’t know about what, but she was being a mom, a mama bear,” the friend said.
“She only wanted to protect her baby,” a relative told the Daily News. “She only went outside to get her child in the house, only to find her child with a pack of more than a dozen girls on her. She tried to pull her child away and they all jumped her.”
Local officials and activists have called for swift action to bring those responsible for the brawl and Roundtree’s death to justice. Police have not yet disclosed details about suspects or arrests but confirmed that several individuals are being questioned.
“Kendra was trying to protect her daughter, and she paid the ultimate price,” said Councilwoman Melissa Chambers. “We will not rest until there is accountability. Her sacrifice and legacy demand nothing less.”
A candlelight vigil is planned for later this week.
