Nayasia A. Gonzalez Was Gunned Down in Central Falls — Her Family Says She Was Not the Target

Central Falls, Rhode Island — November 29, 2025

Gunfire erupted near Washington Street and Chestnut Street in Central Falls, Rhode Island, late on the night of November 29, 2025.

When officers arrived around 11:00 p.m., they found two 19-year-olds suffering from gunshot wounds.

One of them was Nayasia A. Gonzalez, who was also publicly identified in some reports as Nayasia Bucks.

She died at the scene.

The second victim, a 19-year-old male, survived after suffering life-threatening injuries and being rushed to the hospital.

Her Family Says Nayasia Was an Innocent Bystander

Investigators later stated that the shooting appeared to have been targeted.

But according to Nayasia’s family, she herself was not the intended target.

Instead, they believe she became an innocent bystander caught in an act of gun violence that took her life at only 19 years old.

As the investigation unfolded, loved ones, classmates, teachers, and community members across Central Falls and Pawtucket publicly mourned the loss of a young woman remembered as kind, vibrant, and deeply loved.

Nayasia was a graduate of Shea High School, where school officials and former classmates reflected on the devastation surrounding her death.

Central Falls Mayor Maria Rivera also publicly condemned the violence and acknowledged the grief spreading through the communities connected to Nayasia’s life.

Months Later, No Arrests

Months after Nayasia was killed, the case remained unsolved.

No suspects had been publicly identified.

No arrests had been announced.

And her family continued demanding answers.

Nayasia’s mother also began publicly advocating for proposed legislation known as “NyNy’s Law,” named in honor of her daughter.

The proposed law would seek harsher penalties for individuals responsible for killing innocent bystanders during acts of gun violence, including mandatory life sentences without parole for those convicted.

Supporters also launched a scholarship fund in Nayasia’s memory to honor the life and future she lost.

Nayasia was only 19 years old.

She was standing outside on a Rhode Island street when gunfire erupted.

Her family says she was never the person anyone intended to shoot.

Now they are left fighting not only for answers in her murder, but also for changes they hope will protect other innocent people from suffering the same fate.

Anyone with information regarding the murder of Nayasia A. Gonzalez is asked to contact the Central Falls Police Department at 401-727-7411 or leave an anonymous tip at 401-727-7420.

© The Vivid Faces of the Vanished