Nationwide — The death of Juliana Umba Nzita, a 16-year-old African American teen from Charlotte, North Carolina, who was found hanged near a tree after being missing for several days, has been ruled a suicide, police say. However, her family and members of the community continue to question the investigation and the circumstances surrounding her death.
Juliana was found on May 8 at the United House of Prayer for All People in north Charlotte after she had been reported missing for several days.
Kenneth Tolbert discovered her body while walking his dog through the church property. He found her near a tree with a strap around her neck, while her feet were resting on the ground beside a small blue chair. Tolbert immediately informed church members about what he found. Some people initially believed the figure was a doll before realizing it was Juliana and calling 911.
The Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department later closed the case after the medical examiner ruled Juliana’s death a suicide. Police said investigators found no evidence of physical or sexual assault and no indication of foul play, according to the Charlotte Observer.
Juliana’s family and some church members have questioned the ruling. They expressed concerns about the investigation, including the decision not to perform an autopsy, the fact that police never found her cellphone, and whether all possible evidence was examined.
Her uncle, Mathy Nzita, said he did not believe Juliana could have taken her own life based on the circumstances of where she was found. He questioned why authorities did not conduct a more detailed investigation after discovering a teenage girl hanging in a public area.
The family has requested an independent autopsy that will include DNA testing. A civil rights attorney working with the family said they want more details about the investigation before accepting the official conclusion.
Juliana’s relatives said she had experienced mental health struggles and severe bullying before her death. They remembered her as a kind and gentle teenager who was known for her warm smile and close relationship with her family and church.
Police said their investigation found no injuries that suggested a struggle. Authorities also said a tree limb broke during the incident, which may have affected Juliana’s position when she was discovered.
The case has gained attention because of broader concerns about how authorities investigate deaths involving Black victims found hanging in public spaces. Community members have called for more transparency as they wait for additional answers.
More than 200 people attended Juliana’s funeral on July 3 to honor her life. At the church where she was found, people continue to leave flowers and photos near the tree as they await more information about what happened.