Reward grows to $22,500 for arrest in shooting death of 9-year-old Fresno girl

FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) -- The plea for justice continues as the reward to find the shooter responsible for the death of 9-year-old Janessa Ramirez more than triples.

Right now detectives are following more than a dozen leads in the homicide investigation. It's vague information at best. But Police Chief Jerry Dyer says he knows the shooting involved gangs.

Detectives say a white four-door car was also involved. And if it's not someone's conscience that prompts a tip to police the chief hopes money will talk.

Sitting in the glow of prayer candles in West Central Fresno are hand written notes, teddy bears and balloons. The memorial at the scene where Janessa Ramirez was shot Sunday night continues to grow. Her mom Stacey says she's grateful for the support. That, she says, is what helps keep her going.

"Just gotta keep going, just know that she is in a better place," she said. "She doesn't need to suffer from anything worldly or nothing bad. She is in a better place."

Also growing is the reward to help find the gang members who opened fire, shooting off the stray bullet that killed Janessa. $22,500 is now being offered thanks to Fresno City Councilmember Esmeralda Soria, Assemblyman Henry T. Perea and Fresno County Supervisor Henry Perea, and a business owner.

"If you have a heart you must do the right thing," said Janessa's grandfather, Frank Posas. "You will do the right thing. We forgive you and Jesus Christ forgives you. What must be done is just to solve this case."

Dyer is dedicating his entire street violence section to work Janessa's case. Detectives have already talked with at least 90 people in the area of the shooting.

"We know that the first 48-72 hours of any investigation is critical," the chief said. "That's why our detectives have been working around the clock on developing leads. We do not want to lose valuable evidence or witness information."

Janessa's mother visited the shooting scene at Clinton and Marks early Tuesday. She says her little girl was an old soul who, despite being victim of gun violence, died peacefully.

"I don't hold no ill feelings toward them, I just say, you know what, I hope you sleep peaceful tonight, but her face is going to be in their head," Ramirez said. "I know they are looking at it like, oh my goodness."

Chief Dyer says several surveillance cameras give some clues about the deadly incident, like the white four door car they're looking for currently. But the video is dark and grainy.

About 50 people were in the area when the shooting happened Sunday. Police are still hoping to talk to most of them for any possible leads.

Anyone wishing to help the family with funeral expenses can follow this link: http://www.gofundme.com/kiemdk.