Belleville Family Turns To Community After Ni'Kajha Johnson's Death

A fundraiser organized by Brandy Stanback seeks help with funeral costs and support for two children after 24-year-old Ni'Kajha A.K. Johnson was fatally shot in East St. Louis.

Jun 8, 2026 9:59 AM Jun 8, 2026 10:12 AM

Listen to the story

Ni’Kajha A.K. Johnson.

BELLEVILLE - A GoFundMe campaign organized by Brandy Stanback is seeking donations to cover funeral expenses and support the two children of Ni’Kajha A.K. Johnson, a 24-year-old Belleville woman who was fatally shot on June 3, 2026, while sitting in a vehicle at 25th Street and Ridge Avenue in East St. Louis.

Get The Latest News!

Don't miss our top stories and need-to-know news everyday in your inbox.

Stanback, Johnson’s mother, said in the fundraiser that Johnson’s death has left her children and loved ones grieving and that the money raised will help “lay my baby to rest with dignity and class” while also helping care for her two grandchildren.

“Ni'Kajha was a beautiful soul and a joy to be around,” Stanback said. “She lit up every room she entered with her infectious laughter and fearless spirit. Her sense of humor brought smiles to everyone, and her kindness knew no bounds — she would give you the shirt off her back without hesitation.”

Stanback described her daughter as “funny and outgoing, but also incredibly smart, responsible, and a true go-getter.”

Article continues after sponsor message

Reach Your Local Community with Us - advertise today!

“She was an amazing daughter, sister, cousin, aunt, niece, granddaughter, and friend,” Stanback wrote. “Her love for her family and friends was unwavering, and she made a lasting impact on everyone she met.”

In the fundraiser, Stanback said after Johnson’s life “was taken,” adding that she is now “faced with the unimaginable task of laying my baby to rest and caring for her two children.”

“The funds raised through this campaign will go directly towards funeral expenses, ensuring Ni'Kajha is honored with dignity and class, and will also help provide for her children as we navigate this difficult time together,” Stanback wrote.

Stanback also wrote: “I also have to raise my two grandbabies now, so any donations will be helpful and greatly appreciated.”

Click below for the GoFundMe:

https://www.gofundme.com/f/support-for-nikajhas-funeral-children

Prefer RiverBender on Google