IBERIA PARISH, La. (KLFY) — A 22-year-old nursing student was shot and killed after an argument with someone she once considered family. Now, with a trial date set for later this month, the victim’s mother is speaking publicly; seeking justice and answers.

KeAaronee, described by her mother as “bubbly” and “the life of the party,” was fatally shot on the 1700 Block of Brianna Drive in Iberia Parish. The alleged shooter, Kaitlyn Livingston, had been a close friend of the family for years—so close, in fact, that she lived with KeAaronee and her mother from fifth to twelfth grade.

“I raised the girl,” said Keoshia White. “They were like sisters, cousins, every picture together. She’s even in my family photos.”

According to White, the dispute that led to the shooting was over a rake. She was on her way to bring her daughter to school when she received the devastating phone call.

“She was there with a gun,” White recalled. “And three minutes after that, she shot my daughter.”

The loss has left White struggling to cope.

“I can’t wake up; I can’t do nothing no more. I have no hope about nothing anymore,” White said. “She took my child.”

The trial is scheduled for June 23 at the Iberia Parish Courthouse. White says she plans to be in the courtroom every day.

“It’s starting all over again. Everything is replaying,” she said. “But I have faith in God. We’re going to take it to trial and let the jury decide. I just hope everything turns out right.”

In the aftermath of her daughter’s death, White has worked to keep her daughter’s name alive—baking and selling treats in her honor while exploring ways to start a nonprofit. She says the pursuit of justice is what has kept her going.

“To other families going through this—just keep trying and don’t stop,” White said. “Because if you do, it’ll go under. You just got to keep going.”

The Iberia Parish community now waits as the case heads to trial, and a grieving mother searches for closure.

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