**MURDERED: The Murder Of Phylicia Barnes | Black Girl Gone: A True Crime Podcast**

In a heartbreaking tale of tragedy and injustice, the story of Phylicia Barnes—a promising 16-year-old girl who vanished from her sister’s apartment in Baltimore in December 2010—has captivated listeners and left her family in anguish. Despite an extensive search and repeated trials, Phylicia’s murder remains unresolved over a decade later.

On December 28, 2010, Phylicia disappeared during a visit to her half-siblings in Baltimore, a reunion sparked by her desire to connect with her biological family. The last person known to see her was her sister’s ex-boyfriend, Michael Johnson. When Phylicia’s family reported her missing, police initially dismissed the case as a runaway situation. However, the urgency shifted when her body was discovered in a river months later, leading to an investigation that would expose a disturbing web of secrets.

After nearly four years of investigation, Johnson was arrested, but the legal battle dragged on through three separate trials. Despite damning evidence—including text messages and witness statements—each trial ended in frustration. The judge ultimately dropped the charges against Johnson, declaring there were too many unanswered questions, leaving Phylicia’s family devastated and without closure.

The haunting details of Phylicia’s life—her academic success, her loving relationship with her mother, and a tragic descent into a nightmarish reality—serve as a chilling reminder of the violence that can befall innocent lives. As the case now sits cold, the call for justice echoes louder than ever. The Barnes family continues to seek answers, and the story of Phylicia Barnes will not be forgotten. If you have any information regarding her murder, please contact the Baltimore Police Department. Together, we can ensure that Phylicia’s voice is heard and that justice is pursued relentlessly.