The key word here in your statement is “may”. We simply don’t and won’t ever know. Paying the ultimate price as a child is tragic, that’s all I am saying. Deserved to die? I wouldn’t go so far. Actions have consequences and some people are indeed innocent and maybe the Aunt is correct. No way to know now. I don’t try to paint with such a broad brush. Just being pragmatic. There is no solution unfortunately. Things have regressed almost too far to be salvageable.
they had to know something was up when her friends showed up with a new car they could never afford.
what about the elephant in the room-> Hanging around with thugs who carry weapons? Did the aunt mention " she wouod never get into a car with guns?
Now her aunt is gonna say " she wouldnt get into a stolen car". so her aunt is bold faced lying, or thinks everyone else is just plain stupid or afraid to confront her and her b.s.
I high doubt her niece was innocent in any way.
Even God is now taking care of things, this whole thing is the definition of FAFO.