The shooting deaths of two teenagers more than a week ago has Burien residents looking for help and answers from King County leaders and sheriff's deputies.
Eveona Cortez, 19, and a 13-year-old girl were murdered in the 13700 block of Ambaum Boulevard SW on Wednesday, March 28. No arrests have been made yet.
According to the King County Sheriff's Office, the shooting appears to be gang-related and that rattles people who live and work here, especially because the victims are so young.
Dee Thoman works steps away from where the shooting happened. Now a memorial marks the spot, and serves as a daily reminder for her.
"I just couldn't believe it when I heard it, that they were so young. That is just not right," said Thoman.
Liz Giba with the North Highline Unincorporated Area Council, included the topic of gang violence and the impact on youth in the group's monthly meeting on Thursday night.
"It very much brought it home because that is something we have been trying to tell our elected officials for years," said Giba.
Giba says the neighborhoods in Burien and White Center need more attention from County leaders. She claims part of the problem is fair housing laws are not enforced, and kids are raised in unhealthy neighborhoods.
"I think there is a concentration of poverty in those neighborhoods that do not have opportunities for their young people," said Giba.
In response to the teens' deaths, the City of Burien is inviting the community to a town hall discussion on Monday night. The focus will be on how to engage youth and prevent future violence.
