The evening air hung heavy as Detective Nyla Harper and Celina Juarez approached a modest house near the scene of the shooting. The neighborhood was tight-knit but wary—no one eager to talk to the police. Nyla had called Celina in for backup, knowing her calm demeanor would help break the ice.

Celina stepped forward, knocking gently on the door. It swung open to reveal an older woman with anxious eyes and trembling hands.

“Good evening, ma’am,” Celina began softly, offering a warm smile. “I’m Detective Juarez. We’re trying to understand what happened nearby. I know this can be scary, but anything you can share will help us.”

The woman hesitated, voice shaking, “I…I heard loud noises, but I don’t know much.”

Celina nodded patiently. “It’s okay. Take your time. We’re here to listen, not to judge. You’re safe.”

As the woman relaxed, she began to recount what little she knew. Celina stayed close, keeping her tone gentle and steady, knowing that sometimes, empathy was the key to unlocking the hardest stories.

With each word, the woman’s fear eased, and Celina felt the first real step toward the truth. “You’re a big help. Thank you so much. Is there anyone else who would be able to know more?”

The woman nodded, she still had that weary nervous look but she spoke anyways. “The kids who play outside.”