Liberty City

Family, Friends Hold Vigil to Honor 85-Year-Old Woman Shot, Killed in Liberty City

Elizabeth Level was shot and killed on the front porch of her home on Sept. 9

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Family, friends and neighbors gathered in front of the home of Elizabeth Level to hold a vigil in her honor.

The 85-year-old woman was shot and killed on the front porch of her home on the 1000 block of 52nd Street Friday night in Liberty City.

“She survived the ills of Jim Crow, of segregation,” said the family’s attorney, Nykeah Cohen. “She was shot down in cold blood, in cold blood! This community’s matriarch!”

Level’s impact on Liberty City was evident Tuesday night as dozens in the community gathered together to mourn.

“Grandma Liz is not just their grandma, she was Liberty City’s grandmother. She was Liberty City’s matriarch,” said Cohen.

Amongst the crowd of family, friends, and neighbors, were anti-violence activists, faith leaders, and City of Miami Police officers.

Miami Police Department cruisers lined the street, as the community gathered in front of the home where Level lived for more than 50 years.

NBC 6's Xochitl Hernandez has more on the community's call for justice after the shooting last week.

“We pray that Lord God, you will do the avenging,” said Pastor of New Providence Missionary Baptist, Dr. Steven Caldwell.

The victim’s niece, Rese Level, spoke to NBC 6 in front of her aunt’s home.

The home where the Level family made fond memories for decades, now has bullet holes in the facade.

"She was the life of the party. We always called her 'no filter' because she don't care what she say. She gonna give it to you like it is. She don't care. But at the same time, she's a lovable person. You couldn't do nothing but love Liz,” said Rese.

The Level family is pleading with the community for the information they need in order to find justice.

“We just need a tip. Just give us a tip. Like I said, I'll call if you don't want to call, I’ll call. I'm not afraid. If you hear something, say something. Because it's us today. It could be your family tomorrow,” said Rese.

Crime Stoppers says tips leading to an arrest may be eligible for a reward of up to $5,000. You can remain anonymous by calling 305-471-TIPS.

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