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Hillsborough River memorial growing for 4-year-old girl allegedly drowned by mother

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TAMPA, Fla. — A memorial is growing along the Hillsborough River, honoring a 4-year-old girl who, police say, was killed by her own mother Thursday. 

"It breaks my heart," said family friend Sabrina Stephenson. "Just to show my respect for Je'Hyrah, just to show my respect."

Shakayla Denson is in jail without bond, accused of murder after police say she drowned her daughter, Je'Hyrah Daniels. 

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"Kayla wasn't in her right state of mind," said Stephenson. "I know something was really wrong. Because that wasn't Kayla, I know Kayla personally."

ABC Action News spoke with Denson's cousin Friday night, who says his family is in shock. 

"Ask God, can you please send me some answers," said Najee James. "In this tragedy, it's something beyond her own will, with her good motherly actions." 

Je'Hyrah's father stood along the Hillsborough River Friday night, watching over the spot where he lost his little girl. 

"We just came out to support him and his family and let him know that, we're here," said Dominique Autry.