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Vigil held for beloved Bronx teacher fatally shot inside her Williamsbridge home

Hoyle was shot and killed by her boyfriend inside her home on Mickle Avenue on March 31, according to police.

Heather Fordham

Apr 7, 2025, 9:59 PM

Updated 3 hr ago

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Family and friends gathered to remember a beloved teacher in Williamsbridge.
On a chilly and rainy April afternoon, people packed the sidewalk outside of Jessica Hoyle's home. Family and friends huddled together as her mother and sister shared words to remember the 31-year-old.
Hoyle was shot and killed by her boyfriend inside her home on Mickle Avenue on April 1, according to police.
Shannon Graham, 37, was wanted for questioning following Hoyle's death. Graham was tracked down to a home on Pratt Avenue, where he barricaded himself inside and turned the gun on himself, according to police sources. Hoyle's mother, who is wheelchair-bound, said she heard the couple arguing before the gunfire.
"I don't know what to do, and I have to do better, because if not, I was in the hospital, she took care of me, I have to be OK, I don't know how," said Lisa Cabassa, Hoyle's mother.
Hoyle was a first-grade teacher at Children's Aide College Prep Charter School. The school was closed on Monday to allow students and staff to grieve the loss of the teacher and attend the vigil.
In a letter to parents, the school's principal says they will continue to offer counseling services for those who need it as they return to class on Tuesday. Alpha and Omega Church will also be providing grieving services. A private funeral will be held at a later date.