The Galveston community is reeling after a tragic and heartbreaking event unfolded last Thursday — 16-year-old girl is accused of shooting and killing her own mother, 36-year-old Tiamoya Moore, in what family and friends are calling an unimaginable tragedy.
“Why Would You Do This to Your Own Mama?”
For those who knew Tiamoya best, the news has been devastating and confusing. Alicia Giessinger, a lifelong friend who considered Tiamoya more like a sister, broke down while speaking with FOX 26.
“The last couple of days, I would feel like I’m losing my mind,” she said. “Why? Why would you do this to your own mama?”
Alicia and Tiamoya had known each other since childhood, growing up together in LaMarque, Texas. She described Tiamoya as a loving, spiritual woman who had turned her life around and was deeply devoted to her children.
“Tia would give you the shirt off of her back. She loved her kids. She was into God. She changed her life around. That’s what makes this so hard to understand.”
A Life Rebuilt, Cut Short
Family members say Tiamoya had made a fresh start after spending time in California and returning home to Texas. She was known for being generous, strong in her faith, and committed to raising her children the right way.
The idea that her own daughter could take her life has left loved ones stunned and searching for answers.
“I just want to know what really happened,” Alicia added. “What got to that point where you had to take your own mama’s life?”
What We Know About the Arrest
Galveston Police Chief Doug Balli confirmed that the shooting took place in the 5100 block of Avenue Q. Initially, the teen suspect had fled the scene, according to witnesses. However, while investigators were still working the crime scene, the girl returned and was taken into custody on the spot.
Authorities have not yet released details about what may have led to the deadly shooting, and the investigation is ongoing. The 16-year-old suspect is currently being held without bond.
Mental Health at the Center of the Conversation
As emotions begin to settle, some family members are turning their attention to mental health. Alicia, who was initially furious upon hearing the news, now says she’s trying to look deeper into what might have led up to the violence.
“If a child is troubled, then a child is troubled. You can only help them so much… mental health is real.”
She hopes the tragedy brings awareness to youth mental health struggles, something she believes may have played a major role in what happened.
A Family’s Grief, A Community’s Questions
Tiamoya Moore leaves behind grieving family and friends who are still in shock over her death. Alicia says the pain is unlike anything she’s ever known.
“It’s going to take a lifetime to get over this,” she said.
As the legal process moves forward and investigators work to piece together what led up to this tragic act, loved ones are left with heartbreak, unanswered questions, and a deep sense of loss.
