‘Slightest of Disagreements’: Man Killed 8-Year-Old Sister Because she was ‘Talking Back’

A Southfield man has been convicted of first-degree murder for the 2021 killing of his 8-year-old sister. Gyasi Stribling, now 24, was found guilty by a jury on Wednesday for fatally shooting Bailei Singleton in the head during a dispute in their family home. The shooting occurred when Stribling was just 20 years old. The tragedy took place in the living room of their apartment at 12 North Apartments in Southfield, Michigan, in January 2021. Prosecutors said the shooting stemmed from Stribling’s anger over Bailei “talking back” to him. The senseless act left family members and the local community devastated.

Attempted Cover-Up and False Report

Following the shooting, Stribling lied to investigators, claiming that someone had broken into the home and that Bailei was shot during the supposed intrusion. Southfield police quickly determined that his story didn’t add up. During their investigation, authorities discovered that Stribling had attempted to hide the gun used in the shooting, further undermining his credibility and pointing toward premeditation. According to Southfield Police Chief Elvin Barren, the incident never appeared to be accidental. The evidence suggested a clear act of violence rather than a tragic mistake. The conviction follows a lengthy legal process, culminating in the jury’s decision to hold Stribling accountable for the cold-blooded murder of his younger sibling.

A Family and Community in Mourning

The case has drawn strong reactions from local officials and community leaders. Oakland County Prosecutor Karen McDonald stated the verdict, calling Bailei’s death “unconscionable” and entirely preventable. “Bailei Singleton should still be here with us today,” McDonald said. “Her murder was a tragedy for her family. It’s unconscionable that anyone, let alone an 8-year-old child, could be murdered by a relative and in their own home over the slightest of disagreements.” Officials used the case to underscore the larger issue of gun violence, particularly within homes, and its devastating impact on children and families. McDonald called the case “a reminder of how gun violence is a public health epidemic that can end a life in an instant.”

Sentencing Set for May

Gyasi Stribling is scheduled to be sentenced on May 27. He faces the possibility of life in prison without the chance of parole. The conviction of first-degree murder carries Michigan’s harshest penalty and reflects the severity of the crime. The outcome brings a measure of justice for Bailei, whose life was cut tragically short. Her family, while still grieving, can now move forward knowing that her killer will be held fully accountable under the law.