In Loving Memory of of Chariyah Woods (2001-2025) A Beautiful Soul Gone Too Soon
OWINGS MILLS, Md. — The Baltimore County community is grieving the devastating and untimely loss of 24-year-old Chariyah Woods, who tragically lost her life following a shooting early Sunday morning, November 9, 2025, in the 200 block of Pittston Circle in Owings Mills (21117). The heartbreaking incident has left family, friends, and neighbors in shock as they mourn a young woman whose vibrant spirit, compassion, and love for others touched countless lives.
According to the Baltimore County Police Department, officers responded to reports of gunfire shortly after 2:00 a.m. Sunday. Upon arrival, they discovered Chariyah suffering from gunshot wounds. Emergency medical personnel rushed to administer aid, but despite their efforts, she succumbed to her injuries. Detectives have since launched a full investigation into the shooting, which authorities say appears to have been an isolated incident. No arrests had been publicly announced as of Wednesday, and officials are urging anyone with information to come forward.
For those who knew Chariyah Woods, the news of her death has been almost unbearable. Family members describe her as a bright light — someone full of love, laughter, and warmth who brought joy to everyone she met. She was known for her genuine heart, determination, and ability to lift others up even when facing challenges of her own.
“Chariyah was the kind of person who could walk into a room and make everyone feel seen,” said one family friend. “She was caring, funny, and had this incredible energy that drew people to her. Losing her this way is something none of us will ever understand.”
Friends remember Chariyah as a driven young woman with big dreams and a deep passion for helping others. She was devoted to her loved ones and often put their needs above her own. Many described her as a loyal friend, a protective sister, and a source of comfort for anyone in need. “She loved fiercely,” one close friend shared. “She was always there for people — no matter what time of day it was. That’s who Chariyah was.”
The tragic shooting has shaken the normally peaceful Owings Mills neighborhood, prompting renewed calls for unity, community awareness, and an end to senseless violence. Neighbors and local leaders have spoken out in sorrow and frustration, emphasizing the need for justice and for deeper efforts to keep Baltimore County communities safe.
“This is not just another statistic — this is a young woman whose life was stolen,” said one community advocate. “Her family deserves answers, and our community deserves peace.”
In the days following the tragedy, friends and relatives have created memorials near Pittston Circle, where candles, flowers, and heartfelt notes now stand as symbols of remembrance and love. Plans are underway for a candlelight vigil to celebrate Chariyah’s life and offer a space for collective mourning.
Social media has also become a gathering place for grief and remembrance. Hundreds of posts have poured in, filled with photos, prayers, and tributes to the woman so many called “a beautiful soul gone too soon.” One post read, “You didn’t deserve this, Chariyah. You had so much ahead of you. We’ll love you forever and fight for your justice.”
Baltimore County Police have assured the public that detectives are pursuing all leads in the investigation and are asking witnesses or anyone with video footage from the area to contact Metro Crime Stoppers or the department’s homicide unit directly.
As the community mourns, those closest to Chariyah are left to hold on to the memories of her kindness, her laughter, and her unwavering strength. Her death has become not only a source of sorrow but also a rallying cry — a reminder of the human cost of violence and the need for compassion, accountability, and change.
“Chariyah was more than what happened to her,” said a cousin. “She was love, she was light, and she deserved so much more. We’ll make sure she’s never forgotten.”
Funeral arrangements for Chariyah Woods are expected to be announced by her family in the coming days. In the meantime, the Baltimore County community continues to mourn, remembering a young woman whose radiant presence will forever live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved her.
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