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Kaari Thompson was shot along with her mother while going grocery shopping in the 1500 block of Lincoln Avenue near Lemington in Zone 5 around 6:40 p.m., according to her family.
Kaari died shortly after arriving at UPMC Children's Hospital that same evening, Pittsburgh Public Safety confirms.
Her mother remains in an area hospital in critical condition, according to Pittsburgh police.
"The shooters fled in unknown directions. Neighboring police departments assisted Pittsburgh Police with searching the area," according to a release by Pittsburgh Public Safety.
The shooting is now being investigated as a homicide, the release states.
Kaari was a student at Pittsburgh Lincoln Early Childhood where she was "always smiling" and enjoyed "passing out hugs" school officials said on Friday, Dec. 2.
Pittsburgh Public Schools has released a statement reading in part:
"She enjoyed playing in the classroom's housekeeping section and making pretend food for everyone...She was very bright and an absolute joy to have in class. Our thoughts and prayers are with the family during this difficult time."
The family has launched a GoFundMe to help cover the funeral costs as Kaari's mother "is in the hospital in critical condition fighting for her life."
The campaign has raised $3,332 of a $15,00 goal from 104 donors as of Dec. 2 around 6 p.m. If you would like to donate you can do so here.
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