St. Johns teen accused of killing Tristyn Bailey pleads guilty to first-degree murder

Before jury selection was expected to begin in St. Johns County in the murder trial of Aiden Fucci, the teen pleaded guilty to first-degree murder.

The 16-year-old was to be charged as an adult with first degree murder for the stabbing death of 13-year-old Tristyn Bailey.

Fucci is accused of luring Tristyn to a wooded area on Mother’s Day 2021 and stabbing her more than 100 times.

Despite the graphic nature of the events, the Durbin Crossing community tied aqua ribbons to trees and signs around Patriot Oaks Academy, where Tristyn attended school.

TIMELINE: Tristyn Bailey disappearance, discovery on Mother’s Day, 2021

During a vigil Tristyn’s mom Stacey Bailey was overcome with emotion and gratitude.

“You guys amaze us and the outpour of love from our community is breathtaking.”, Bailey said.

Aiden Fucci is being held in the Duval County pre-trial detention facility because St. Johns County does not have a juvenile detention center.

The judge set a February 23rd hearing to go over issues ahead of a sentencing.

Following the guilty plea, St. Johns County Sheriff Rob Hardwick issued the following statement:

“Aiden Fucci’s decision to enter a guilty plea today is nothing more than a testament to the hard work and dedication of the exceptional men and women of the St. Johns County Sheriff’s Office (SJSO). This was an all-out agency effort. This was also an incredible community effort. The citizens of St. Johns County always show up and this case was no different. The immediate assistance from our community reaffirms the partnership we have with our citizens. The support they showed the Bailey Family was something special to witness.

The trial preparation process is just as tedious as the investigation itself. The detectives have not stopped working this case since the initial call we received. The State Attorney’s Office immediately went to work upon Fucci’s arrest and has put forth countless hours to prepare for today. SJSO has worked hand-in-hand with the State Attorney’s Office and we couldn’t be more appreciative of the partnership.

Additionally, I’d like to thank the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office for their unwavering assistance since the start of this case. Lastly, the cooperation between our agency and the Bailey Family has been unparalleled. Their strength and grace throughout this case has been incredible. This agency will forever be connected to the Bailey Family and this community will forever be #BaileyStrong.”.