In the early hours of Saturday, November 9, 2024, tragedy struck the quiet city of Millville, New Jersey, as the body of 36-year-old Teaoshia Still was discovered by a local jogger in Waltman City Park. The jogger, who was out early for a routine run, came upon Still’s lifeless form at approximately 5:12 a.m., near a wooded area in the park. Observing injuries to her head and other suspicious signs, the jogger immediately called 911, summoning the Millville Police Department to the scene.
Upon their arrival, police officers identified Teaoshia Still, a resident of Church Street, Millville, and confirmed that she had sustained multiple gunshot wounds. Medical personnel pronounced her dead at the scene. This unsettling discovery has since plunged the Millville community into shock and grief, as authorities intensify efforts to investigate the circumstances surrounding Still’s death. The Millville Police Department, in conjunction with the Cumberland County Prosecutor’s Office, has launched a full-scale homicide investigation.
A Grisly Discovery in Waltman City Park
The scene of the tragedy, Waltman City Park, is typically a peaceful gathering spot for Millville’s residents, a place where people jog, walk their dogs, and enjoy the natural surroundings. The park’s reputation as a safe haven has made the events of November 9 all the more distressing for locals, who have expressed their shock over the violent incident in an area not commonly associated with crime.
The individual who discovered Still’s body, a jogger who frequents the park in the early morning, described the horrifying scene. Speaking anonymously, they shared, “I was out for my morning run, just like I do every day, and I noticed something lying on the ground. At first, I thought maybe someone was hurt or had passed out, but as I got closer, I realized it was far worse. I immediately called the police.”
Still’s body was found in a secluded section of the park near a trail lined with trees, a location that, according to local residents, is usually dimly lit and not well-patrolled. Authorities have since cordoned off the area as they continue to gather evidence and piece together the timeline of events leading up to the discovery.
Who Was Teaoshia Still? Remembering a Beloved Member of the Millville Community
Teaoshia Still, known affectionately as “Te,” was a familiar face to many in Millville. Friends and neighbors describe her as a kind-hearted, warm individual who was always willing to lend a hand. Originally from Millville, she had lived on Church Street for the past several years, building a close network of friends and acquaintances. A mother and a dedicated member of her community, Still’s tragic death has left a void in the lives of those who knew her.
A neighbor of Still’s, Brianna Jenkins, recalled her as a generous soul: “Te was the kind of person who would help anyone in need. She was always smiling and bringing positivity to everyone around her. It’s heartbreaking to think she’s gone, and to know she died in such a horrific way is just too painful to bear.”
Still’s family and friends have expressed their grief publicly, sharing memories and pictures of her on social media. Her cousin, Malik Still, wrote, “We’re devastated. Teaoshia didn’t deserve this. She was loved by so many, and to lose her to such violence is beyond comprehension. Our family needs answers, and we’re asking anyone who knows something to come forward.”
The Ongoing Investigation: Police and Prosecutor’s Office Seek Answers
The Millville Police Department and the Cumberland County Prosecutor’s Office are currently working together on what has been classified as a homicide investigation. So far, no arrests have been made, and officials are urging anyone with information to come forward. Detectives are meticulously combing through the evidence, including forensic data from the scene and any possible surveillance footage from nearby areas.
According to Millville Police Chief Andre Fox, authorities are committed to uncovering the truth behind Still’s death. “We are actively pursuing all leads and analyzing all evidence. This is a tragedy for the community, and we want to assure the public that we will do everything in our power to bring justice for Ms. Still and her family. We ask anyone who may have seen or heard anything unusual in the early hours of November 9 to contact us,” Chief Fox said.
Investigators are reportedly focusing on several key aspects, including the possibility that Still was targeted due to a personal dispute or prior threats. However, they are also exploring other potential motives, leaving no stone unturned. Police have emphasized that anyone with information—no matter how insignificant it might seem—could play a crucial role in solving the case.
Community Concerns and Growing Calls for Safety Measures
Still’s murder has shaken the Millville community, sparking conversations about public safety and crime prevention. Residents have expressed concern over the lack of lighting and security in Waltman City Park, especially in the early morning and late evening hours. Many are calling for increased police presence, improved lighting, and the installation of security cameras to deter potential criminal activity.
A longtime Millville resident, Lisa Garcia, shared her thoughts: “This is a wake-up call for our city. We’ve always felt safe here, but something like this makes you think twice. I hope the city council will take this incident seriously and make some changes to protect our parks and neighborhoods.”
Local city council members have responded by pledging to review current safety measures and consider implementing additional precautions. Councilmember Richard Olsen addressed the community’s concerns, stating, “We are heartbroken over Ms. Still’s tragic death, and we want to assure our residents that we are actively working with law enforcement to improve safety in public areas. Waltman City Park should be a safe place for everyone, and we will take every measure necessary to ensure that this kind of tragedy never happens again.”
A Call for Community Cooperation
As the investigation progresses, officials are urging the community to come together in the search for justice. The Millville Police Department and Cumberland County Prosecutor’s Office have established a tip line specifically for information related to Still’s murder, emphasizing the importance of community cooperation in solving violent crimes. Authorities are also encouraging residents to remain vigilant, report any suspicious activity, and attend upcoming community meetings aimed at addressing safety concerns.
In addition to formal investigative efforts, community leaders are organizing a candlelight vigil in honor of Teaoshia Still. The vigil is set to take place in Waltman City Park next week, providing friends, family, and residents an opportunity to come together, remember Still’s life, and stand united against the violence that claimed her.
Local pastor Jonathan Reed, who will lead the vigil, spoke about the importance of solidarity in the wake of tragedy: “When we lose someone in such a senseless way, we feel broken. But in moments like these, we must come together, lean on each other, and support one another. Teaoshia was one of us. She was part of our community, and we owe it to her and her family to honor her memory and work toward a safer future.”
Justice for Teaoshia: Authorities Press On in Search for Answers
The Cumberland County Prosecutor’s Office has announced that they will provide regular updates to the public as the investigation continues. Although details remain scarce, officials are confident that with the help of the community and ongoing investigative efforts, they will be able to bring those responsible for Still’s murder to justice.
Prosecutor John Cantwell assured the public of his office’s commitment: “The tragic and violent death of Teaoshia Still has left a deep wound in our community. We are fully committed to solving this case and holding those responsible accountable. Our thoughts and prayers are with Ms. Still’s family, and we encourage anyone with information to come forward.”
As Millville grieves, the city remains on high alert, hoping for swift answers and resolutions. Teaoshia Still’s loved ones, along with the Millville community, await justice, holding onto memories of her kindness and resilience. This incident, while tragic, has underscored the community’s resolve to support one another, improve safety, and stand in solidarity against the senseless violence that claimed the life of a beloved resident.
