A federal judge has approved a $9.6 million award to Nadine McKenzie, the mother of 13-year-old Shamoya McKenzie, who was fatally shot in a gang-related incident in Mount Vernon in 2016.

Shamoya was an innocent victim of the shooting, and four men are currently serving lengthy prison sentences in connection with the crime.

Nadine McKenzie filed a wrongful death lawsuit against the four men, which was recommended by a federal magistrate.

The award is intended to hold the perpetrators accountable for their actions. In November, McKenzie expressed her hope that the award would send a powerful message that those who commit such heinous crimes will be held accountable.

"You will not kill someone and get away with it," she said.