When Kaylah Henderson and her younger sibling, Aliyah, were growing up in Stafford County, they sometimes clashed. With a 3 ½ year age gap, Kaylah often found herself looking after Aliyah post-school, creating a quasi-maternal dynamic in their relationship. However, as time passed, their bond evolved into a deep friendship. This connection strengthened significantly after Kaylah tragically lost one of her closest friends to a second battle with COVID-19 at the young age of 24. In a heartfelt moment, Kaylah reassured Aliyah, declaring, “You’re my forever best friend. You’re not going anywhere.”
Their last conversation took place via FaceTime on August 23, 2022, where they made plans to meet up the following weekend for a joint nail salon session. Little did Kaylah know that this would be their final interaction.
A mere two hours later, Kaylah received the devastating news that her beloved sister had been shot by her infant son’s father at their family residence in Stafford. Frantic and anxious, Kaylah hurried from Chesterfield County to Stafford, only to be met with a scene shrouded in tragedy – law enforcement vehicles, caution tape, and an overwhelming sense of loss. Inside the house, she overheard her mother informing her employer about the heartbreaking reality of Aliyah’s passing. At just 19 years old, Aliyah’s life was cut short.
On December 18, 2023, Trevon Vanzant admitted guilt to second-degree murder, along with firearm-related felonies, in a plea deal that resulted in a 48-year prison sentence, with eight years suspended. The courtroom, filled with over 40 of Aliyah’s supporters adorned in purple ribbons, echoed with Judge Victoria Willis’ acknowledgment of the profound impact on the family and community.
Describing the murder as callous and premeditated, Willis highlighted Vanzant’s deceitful actions leading up to the tragic event. Aliyah’s mother, Karen Henderson, expressed a bittersweet acceptance of the sentence, acknowledging that while it was the best possible outcome under the circumstances, the family had hoped for a trial instead. The pain of their loss was immeasurable, forcing Karen to seek refuge with her brother for months, unable to bear the memories within the walls of her home where her daughter’s life was taken.
The Henderson family’s journey towards healing and justice continues as they navigate life without Aliyah, focusing on raising her young son, Khalil. Despite the void left by Aliyah’s absence, her spirit lives on through cherished memories and videos shared with Khalil, ensuring he grows up knowing his mother’s love and presence.
Aliyah, a vibrant and talented young mother, had dreams of pursuing a career in hair and makeup, exemplified by her recent casting as an extra on the Apple TV series “Swagger.” In contrast, Kaylah excelled in basketball, earning a scholarship to Chowan University and now coaching the sport she loves. The sisters, though different in interests and personalities, shared a profound bond that transcended their individual pursuits.
As the Hendersons strive to rebuild their shattered lives, their unwavering faith, coupled with the love and support of their community, serves as a guiding light. While the pain of their loss remains palpable, they find solace in forgiveness and the hope for a brighter tomorrow, where Khalil can grow up surrounded by love, strength, and the enduring legacy of his mother, Aliyah.