Tips come in after reward offered in slaying of Salisbury 7-year-old

SALISBURY, N.C. — Police told Channel 9 that they have developed new leads four days after a 7-year-old girl was shot and killed in her sleep.

Salisbury police announced a $20,000 reward Wednesday afternoon for any information that will lead to the arrest of the person who shot and killed 7-year-old A’yanna Allen.

Investigators said that after offering that sizable reward, they’ve received several tips, including one this morning that they’re following up on.

Authorities said someone shot into a Harrel Street home at 4:20 a.m. Sunday, hitting the little girl as she was sleeping. Her 56-year-old grandmother, Shirley Robinson, was also shot.

Robinson suffered a gunshot wound to the leg and was taken to the hospital. A’yanna died at the home.

During the news conference, police and city leaders announced a partnership with Rowan County Sheriff's Office in response to the rash of violence that has plagued Salisbury. The $20,000 reward is one of the highest ever, and authorities hope it leads to an arrest.

"If that were your daughter, you would want this case solved," Rowan County Sheriff Kevin Auten said. "She didn't do anything but go to bed."

WATCH: Rowan Co. Sheriff pleads for gunman to come forward

Also for the first time since the shooting, investigators confirmed they believe A'yanna's murder and the shooting death of Sharod Mathis outside Firewater Bar and Lounge are likely connected. They said they're looking into whether it's all gang-related.

"That's sad you gotta put out a reward to find out who killed by daughter. Sad, don't make sense," said A'yanna's mother, Shequita Woodbery.

The community has also started the movement #JusticeForAyanna to try and find the person who killed her.

A'yanna's funeral will be held Sunday at 3 p.m. at Gethsemane Missionary Baptist Church at 719 S. Caldwell St. in Salisbury.

Visitation will be held prior to the funeral at 2 p.m.

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