Balloons rise in Raleigh as community remembers 13-year-old Mykia Daniel

Daniel was found on North Hills Drive with a gunshot wound.

A 16-year-old now faces a murder charge in connection with her death.

Friends and family say the event wasn't about the manner of her passing, but about celebrating the life of a bright young girl.

13-year-old girl shot to death in Raleigh apartment attended Ligon Middle School

Tears flowed freely as loved ones shared stories and memories, but a powerful message of unity emerged.

"A child’s life was taken at 13. So we’re devastated," Tricia Hayes said.

Daniel's spirit was described as beautiful and vibrant. "She was still a baby," said Toni Brown.

The shooting took place early Monday morning at an apartment complex in North Raleigh.

The initial outpouring of grief has only grown with each passing day.

"Everybody's hurting," Hayes said. "Some can't eat, some can't sleep."

At Chavis Park, mourners shared stories of their own losses to gun violence, a heavy burden borne by far too many families.

"I think we all need to get together and get on the same page and just talk about the gun violence and do something about this," Bishop Patrick Dewberry said.

A young life tragically cut short, now soaring high above.

"The only thing good that comes of this is that she’s with her Father now. Both of them," Hayes said

So far a 16 year old has been charged with her murder.

Family says they want justice and for anyone who knows anything to come forward.