A grieving community gathered Monday evening at Roy Wilkins Park in St. Albans to honor 15-year-old Jaden Pierre, who was beaten and shot to death at the same basketball court last week.
Chants of “Say his name, Jaden Pierre” echoed through the park as hundreds of residents, family members and clergy held a vigil at the site of the shooting.
Police said a physical altercation involving several young people escalated Thursday night, ending with Pierre being shot once in the chest. He was taken to a hospital, where he died.
What You Need To Know
A vigil was held at Roy Wilkins Park for 15-year-old Jaden Pierre, who was killed last week
Police say a fight involving several youths escalated into a fatal shooting
Officials and family members are urging those responsible to turn themselves in
“This should have never happened to my 15-year-old cousin, a regular day that should’ve been for him to come to this park and play like any other child. Unfortunately, his life was taken by a child and a few children who have no remorse for life. We ask that the parents turn your kids in,” said Deena, Pierre’s cousin, who declined to give her last name.
Pierre’s parents attended the vigil, where his father spoke emotionally about the loss.
“That was my life. He was everything to me. I love you, Jaden. I love you with everything in my heart, my soul, everything from my head to my toes,” he said.
Authorities have not made any arrests, but police have released photos of a suspect they are seeking in connection with the shooting.
New York Attorney General Letitia James also attended the vigil, urging the suspect to surrender.
“I want everyone to know the police know who shot Jaden. In fact, they even know where he is. I would urge this gentleman to turn yourself in,” James said. “Surrender as soon as possible before the NYPD gets to you or the community.”
The investigation remains ongoing.