HILLSBORO, Mo. — A 16-year-old girl was found shot to death in a rural Jefferson County home over the weekend, and investigators have charged three juveniles in connection with the case, officials said.
Jefferson County authorities reported that the girl, identified by media outlets as Gabbriana Boyster, was discovered Saturday afternoon in a residence near Hillsboro. Sheriff David Marshak said investigators believe the shooting occurred Friday evening and that the victim’s body was left at the scene for several hours before being found.
Charges, custody status
The Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office announced Tuesday that three juvenile suspects face charges. Officials have not released the suspects’ names.
- One juvenile remains in custody and is charged with involuntary manslaughter, unlawful use of a weapon — resulting in death, armed criminal action and abandonment of a corpse.
- Two other juveniles were charged with abandonment of a corpse and were released from custody.
| Number of juveniles | Charges | Custody status |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Involuntary manslaughter; unlawful use of a weapon — death; armed criminal action; abandonment of a corpse | In custody |
| 2 | Abandonment of a corpse | Released from custody |
Community response and support
The Hillsboro School District said it will offer grief counseling to students and families as the community processes the loss. District officials expressed sympathy for the student’s relatives and others affected.
“Our hearts are with the student’s family, friends, and everyone impacted by this unimaginable loss,” Hillsboro School District Superintendent Dr. Jon Isaacson said. “While words cannot take away the pain of this tragedy, we want our students, staff, and families to know they are not alone. We are committed to providing support and care for everyone who is grieving during this difficult time.”
A GoFundMe page has been set up to assist the victim’s family, according to local reports. Beyond that, authorities have released limited additional information as the investigation continues.
What remains unanswered
Officials have not provided a motive or detailed timeline beyond the sheriff’s statement that the shooting likely occurred Friday evening and the body was discovered the following afternoon. Names of the juvenile suspects have not been made public.
Investigations involving juvenile defendants often involve additional confidentiality protections; prosecutors and the sheriff’s office will determine how the case proceeds through the juvenile or criminal court systems. Residents with information are encouraged to contact the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office to assist investigators.
This incident is the latest fatal juvenile-involved shooting reported in Missouri this year and adds to statewide concerns about youth violence and public safety in rural communities. Local officials say support services and counseling are being mobilized as the community copes with the loss.
