ALLENTOWN, PA — Authorities have identified Jerkera Battle, a 22-year-old woman, as the victim of a tragic shooting in her Allentown apartment. Battle’s death has been ruled a homicide, following a fatal shooting allegedly carried out by her former boyfriend, Adam Makowka, 27. The incident, which has left the community shaken, occurred early Monday morning, July 21, 2025, at Battle’s residence in the 700 block of West Turner Street.

The Fatal Incident

At approximately 4:15 a.m., local law enforcement responded to reports of gunfire at Battle’s apartment. Upon arriving at the scene, officers found Jerkera Battle dead from a gunshot wound to the head. The Lehigh County Coroner’s Office confirmed the cause of death after performing an autopsy. The investigation quickly determined that Battle’s ex-boyfriend, Adam Makowka, was responsible for the attack.

Details of the Attack

According to court records and initial findings from the Lehigh County District Attorney’s Office, Adam Makowka entered the apartment through a roof access door, armed with an AR-15 rifle. At the time of the shooting, Battle was in a bedroom with her 3-month-old baby.

Makowka allegedly began firing on Battle, striking her in the head. Thankfully, the infant was unharmed during the attack, but the psychological and emotional toll of the incident on the child is expected to be profound. After the shooting, Makowka fled the scene in his vehicle, but he was tracked down later in Lansdowne, Delaware County, and taken into custody without further incident.

Motive Behind the Tragedy

Lehigh County District Attorney Gavin Holihan confirmed that there had been an ongoing custody dispute between Jerkera Battle and Adam Makowka regarding their 3-month-old child. The custody conflict is believed to be the potential motive behind the violent act. This tragic case highlights the alarming reality of how disputes over child custody can escalate into deadly violence.

Investigation and Legal Proceedings

The Allentown Police Department, Lehigh County Homicide Task Force, and Lehigh County District Attorney’s Office are working in coordination on the ongoing investigation. Multiple agencies are continuing to piece together the details of the incident, including how Makowka obtained the AR-15 rifle and managed to access the apartment. Authorities have assured the public that the case is active and ongoing, and more details are expected to be released as the investigation progresses.

Makowka is currently facing charges related to the fatal shooting, and he is awaiting legal proceedings. A preliminary hearing has been scheduled for July 29, 2025.

Impact on the Community and the Victim’s Family

The Allentown community has been left reeling from the violent and senseless nature of the crime. Friends, family, and neighbors have expressed their shock and sorrow at the tragic loss of Jerkera Battle, who was described by those who knew her as a kind-hearted, caring individual who always put others first.

The fact that the 3-month-old child was present during the attack has intensified the grief and concern within the local community. Family members, including Jerkera’s sister, have asked for privacy as they mourn the loss of a beloved daughter, sister, and mother.

Domestic Violence Awareness

This incident has once again brought domestic violence to the forefront of public discussion, highlighting the extreme risks and tragic consequences of abusive relationships. Local officials have emphasized the importance of seeking help in cases of domestic violence, as well as abusive or dangerous relationships. Authorities urge individuals in similar circumstances to reach out to support services, including local shelters, counseling programs, and legal advocacy groups that provide resources for victims.

Domestic violence advocates are calling for more efforts to be made in addressing the issue, emphasizing the critical need for prevention and intervention. The tragic deaths of Jerkera Battle and the emotional toll of the events will serve as a reminder of the dangers that can arise when violence is left unchecked.

The Legal Process Moving Forward

The legal process for Adam Makowka will unfold in the coming weeks. If convicted, he could face serious charges related to first-degree murder, attempted murder, and child endangerment, among others. The authorities have reiterated their commitment to ensuring justice for Jerkera Battle, and the ongoing investigation will continue to examine all relevant factors, including the relationship between Makowka and Battle, as well as the custody dispute that may have played a pivotal role in the incident.

Conclusion: A Tragic Loss and the Need for Change

The tragic death of Jerkera Battle is a painful reminder of the devastating consequences of domestic violence and unresolved disputes. As the community of Allentown mourns the loss of a young woman with so much life ahead of her, the call for justice grows louder. The case also sheds light on the critical need for better support systems for victims of domestic violence, as well as the importance of public awareness and prevention efforts.

Jerkera Battle’s family and friends will forever remember her as someone who radiated compassion, love, and strength. In her memory, they hope to honor her life and ensure that no other family has to suffer the same loss.

Authorities continue to investigate the full circumstances of the incident, and the community eagerly awaits justice. The Allentown Police Department and Lehigh County District Attorney’s Office encourage anyone with information about the case to come forward, ensuring that the truth behind this tragic event is fully understood.

As the case unfolds, the community remains hopeful for justice and accountability, even as they continue to process the deep sorrow of Jerkera Battle’s untimely death.