Jamaica, Queens, New York — Takira “Kiki” Spruill was known by many as “Da Social Butterfly.”
She was outgoing, vibrant, deeply loved, and devoted to her family.
She was also the mother of three children who are now growing up without her.
This case was shared with The Vivid Faces of the Vanished by Takira’s family, who remain determined to keep her memory alive and seek justice on her behalf.
On January 28, 2025, Takira’s life came to a violent end inside the South Jamaica Houses, known locally as the “40 Projects.”
She was 41 years old.
Events Leading to Takira’s Death
According to police and witness accounts, Takira was walking with a friend at approximately 5:00 a.m. when she encountered her boyfriend, Jemay Pollard.
Witnesses reported that Pollard had been on his way to work when he saw Takira.
He allegedly got off a transit bus, followed her into a local store, and began arguing with her.
According to witnesses, Takira attempted to distance herself from the confrontation, but Pollard continued following her and her friend back to an apartment building.
Inside the apartment, Takira’s friend Jasmine attempted to calm the situation.
The argument eventually moved into the hallway.
Neighbors later reported hearing Takira repeatedly tell Pollard to leave.
Moments later, the confrontation turned violent.
Fatal Hallway Attack
Investigators allege Pollard began choking Takira in the hallway.
When Jasmine attempted to intervene by pulling him away, she suffered a knife injury to her hand.
Fearing for her safety, she retreated into the apartment and locked the door.
Authorities later alleged that Pollard had taken two kitchen knives from the apartment earlier that night.
Investigators say Takira was thrown down a flight of stairs and strangled to death.
Witnesses also reported that Pollard blocked portions of the hallway during the attack, preventing others from immediately helping Takira.
Family members later described Pollard’s behavior in the months leading up to the homicide as increasingly controlling and obsessive.
Several people recalled seeing him silently monitoring Takira in public settings and becoming hostile toward individuals who interacted with her.
Arrest and Ongoing Court Proceedings
Following the homicide, police arrested Jemay Pollard and charged him in connection with Takira’s death.
Authorities allege that after the killing, Pollard photographed Takira’s body and shared the image with others instead of contacting emergency services.
The image was reportedly circulated throughout the neighborhood, causing additional trauma for Takira’s family and loved ones.
Pollard remains jailed while awaiting trial.
Remembering Takira
Takira’s family remembers her as a loving mother, daughter, sister, and friend whose presence brought energy and joy to those around her.
Her death has become a painful reminder of the dangers of escalating domestic violence and coercive control.
Today, her family continues to advocate for justice while ensuring that Takira is remembered for the life she lived rather than the violence that took it.
Takira Spruill was 41 years old.
She left behind three children, countless loved ones, and a family determined to keep her story alive.
Anyone with information regarding this case is urged to contact the New York City Police Department.
© The Vivid Faces of the Vanished