Family of Woman Paralyzed in Norristown Shooting Speaks After Arrests and Gun Trafficking Charges
NORRISTOWN, Pa. — Five people are now facing charges after a January shooting at a Norristown gas station left a 21-year-old woman paralyzed, according to the Montgomery County District Attorney’s Office.
Authorities say Ziyker Washington, 20, and Benjamin Lee, 18, were arrested in connection with the Jan. 4 shooting at the Shell Gas Station. Investigators say Washington was seen on surveillance video opening fire at a vehicle in the parking lot.
The shooting paralyzed 21-year-old Jayla Dinolfi, while a 22-year-old driver was shot in the thigh and a 16-year-old boy suffered a finger injury.
Washington is also facing charges related to the November homicide of 19-year-old Hamid Boyd, officials said.
During a search of the home where Washington and Lee were arrested, detectives recovered two firearms, including a Springfield 10mm handgun that matched shell casings from the gas station shooting.
Gun Trafficking Investigation
Prosecutors say the weapon used in the shooting was obtained through a straw purchasing and gun trafficking operation.
Authorities allege Derek Moore, Dayvir Hardcastle, and Ramel Waddell Jr. worked together to illegally purchase and distribute firearms. Investigators say Moore purchased the guns at Treeline Sports Inc. and other gun stores before they were transferred illegally.
Hardcastle has been charged, while Moore and Waddell remain wanted.
Family Speaks Out
Jayla’s father, John Gulotta, described his daughter as a quiet and kind person and said the family is struggling with the aftermath of the shooting.
“To see her every day, it’s hard,” Gulotta said. “She can’t move.”
The family is now preparing their home to be wheelchair accessible and has launched a GoFundMe fundraiser to help cover medical and home modification costs.
Despite the challenges, Gulotta said the family remains hopeful.
“That’s our prayer,” he said. “We’re convinced she’s going to walk, and we remind her every day.”
Investigation Ongoing
Authorities say the gun trafficking investigation is continuing, and they are still searching for Moore and Waddell.
Jayla is expected to return home later this month as she continues her rehabilitation.
