In Loving Memory of Maliyah Powell

In Loving Memory of Maliyah Powell

With profound sorrow and aching hearts, we come together to remember and honor the life of Maliyah Powell, a vibrant young woman whose life was tragically cut short in the early hours of Friday, March 20, 2026. At just 22 years old, Maliyah’s passing has left an irreplaceable void in the hearts of her family, friends, and the entire community of Lewiston.

In the quiet darkness of that morning, at approximately 1:26 a.m., a 911 call brought urgent attention to Union Street. Officers from the Lewiston Police Department responded swiftly, joined by the Maine State Police. Upon arrival, they discovered Maliyah suffering from a gunshot wound—an unimaginable and heartbreaking scene that would soon ripple grief throughout the entire city.

Maliyah was rushed to Central Maine Medical Center, where medical professionals fought to save her life. Despite their efforts, she later succumbed to her injuries. Her passing was later confirmed by the Office of Chief Medical Examiner, where an autopsy determined the cause of death to be a gunshot wound, and the manner of death ruled a homicide.

No words can fully capture the pain of losing someone so young, so full of promise, and so deeply loved. Maliyah was more than a victim of tragedy—she was a daughter, a friend, a light in the lives of those who knew her. She carried dreams yet to be fulfilled, laughter that brightened rooms, and a spirit that touched hearts in ways that will never be forgotten.

Those who knew Maliyah remember her for her warmth, her strength, and her ability to connect with others. She had a presence that made people feel seen and valued. Whether through her smile, her kindness, or the simple moments she shared, she created memories that will now serve as treasured reminders of a life gone too soon.

As the investigation unfolded, authorities identified a suspect, and 25-year-old Elise Bergeron of Lewiston was arrested and charged with murder. She was taken to the Androscoggin County Jail. While the legal process continues, it does little to ease the sorrow felt by those mourning Maliyah’s loss.

In times like these, communities are tested—but they also come together. The dedication of investigators from the Maine State Police Major Crimes Unit South, along with Evidence Response Technicians and local law enforcement, reflects a commitment to seeking truth and justice. Yet beyond the investigation, there remains a deeper need—to remember Maliyah not for how she died, but for how she lived.

Her life, though brief, held meaning. It mattered. She mattered.

We grieve for the moments she will never experience, the milestones she will never reach, and the future that was taken from her. But we also hold onto the love she gave, the joy she brought, and the impact she made in her 22 years.

To her family, we extend our deepest condolences. No loss is greater than that of a child, a sister, a loved one taken too soon. May you find strength in one another, and comfort in the memories that can never be taken away.

Maliyah Powell will be remembered—not in the shadow of tragedy, but in the light of the love she shared. Her name will live on in the hearts of those who knew her, and her story will not be forgotten.

Rest in peace, Maliyah. You are loved beyond words and missed beyond measure.