She was reported missing the morning after a sleepover. Her body was found later that same day, in the woods near her Florida neighborhood.
The Murder
Tristyn Bailey, 13, was reported missing by her family on May 9, 2021, in St. Johns County, Florida. Her body was discovered later that day in a wooded area. Investigators identified 14-year-old classmate Aiden Fucci as the person responsible; forensic evidence, including his DNA found on her body, connected him to the crime, and witnesses said he had told others beforehand of his intention to kill someone in the woods.
Trial and Guilty Plea
Fucci was charged as an adult with first-degree murder. In February 2023, during a hearing originally scheduled to begin jury selection, he pleaded guilty.
Sentencing
Circuit Judge R. Lee Smith sentenced Fucci to life in prison. In his remarks, the judge described the crime as premeditated and said Fucci showed a poor prognosis for rehabilitation given the nature of the offense, noting that the killing appeared to have no discernible motive — not greed, revenge, rejection, or a crime of passion. Judge Smith described Bailey as an "energetic, happy child" who had suffered "a painful and horrifying death from someone she trusted."
The Aftermath
Tristyn's father, Forrest Bailey, thanked the prosecution team and law enforcement following the sentencing and asked the public to show consideration toward Fucci's family during a difficult time.
FAQ
What sentence did Aiden Fucci receive?
Life in prison, after pleading guilty to first-degree murder.
How old were Aiden Fucci and Tristyn Bailey?
Fucci was 14 at the time of the murder; Bailey was 13.
Was a motive ever established?
The judge stated at sentencing that there appeared to be no clear motive behind the killing.