UPDATE: 18-year-old Tristan Doner named as shooter. In 2019, 12-year-old Tristan was one of 16 finalists competing in the National Memory Master event.
OMAHA, Neb. — A community is grieving after a devastating act of violence claimed the life of 17-year-old AJ “Zara” Sobansky, a rising junior at Millard North High School. The teenager was killed Friday night, June 6, in what Omaha police have confirmed was a murder-suicide in a parking lot near 137th Street and California Street.
The tragic incident unfolded shortly after 9:00 p.m. when officers responded to reports of gunfire in the quiet West Omaha commercial area. Upon arrival, authorities found AJ deceased inside a vehicle and an 18-year-old male lying nearby with a fatal self-inflicted gunshot wound. Investigators believe the young man shot AJ before turning the weapon on himself.
The news has sent shockwaves through the Millard North community, where AJ was known as a bright, artistic soul with a gift for performance and a heart full of authenticity. Her death has left family, friends, teachers, and classmates devastated.
“AJ was smart, talented, and completely herself,” her loved ones shared. “She brought joy, honesty, and heart to everything she did—whether on stage, in class, or just spending time with her friends. She was deeply loved and will be dearly missed.”
A passionate performer, AJ was involved in show choir, theater, forensics, and poetry. She recently took the stage in Millard North’s production of Mean Girls, showcasing her charisma and talent for the arts. Teachers remember her as a student who wasn’t afraid to speak her mind and always offered support to her peers.
The Sobansky family—parents Cody and Erin, along with siblings Zoren, Zehla, and Ziggy—are enduring an unimaginable loss. Friends of the family have rallied to support them, offering love and solidarity in this time of sorrow.
“All our hearts are broken with the tragic loss of our sweet AJ,” one family friend wrote. “We want to wrap our arms around the Sobansky family as they navigate this unthinkable pain.”
The Omaha Police Department continues to investigate the circumstances leading to the incident but has not released details about the relationship between the two teens or a possible motive. Officials say grief counselors and mental health professionals have been made available to students and faculty at Millard North.
In the face of such tragedy, community members are urging one another to stay connected and to seek help when needed. Those struggling with emotional distress are encouraged to contact the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, available 24/7 by calling or texting 988.
As the city mourns, the memory of AJ Sobansky will live on through the voices she shared with the world, the performances she graced, and the light she brought into so many lives. She is remembered not just for her talents, but for her kind heart and fearless individuality.
Rest in power, AJ “Zara” Sobansky. You were loved. You are missed. Your story will not be forgotten.