PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) — The family of a Philadelphia man who was killed in an off-campus shooting during Delaware State University’s homecoming weekend is struggling to come to terms with his death.
Nasir Cox, 22, was killed Saturday after attending a homecoming celebration near Delaware State University, according to family members and police.
A second victim, a 21-year-old man, was injured and remains hospitalized in stable condition, Dover police said.
Cox’s family said he did not attend Delaware State but traveled there to visit a friend and celebrate homecoming.
“He was sweet. He liked to make people laugh,” said Lanai Sutton.
Family members described Cox, a Roxborough High School graduate and a worker for the City of Philadelphia, as an upbeat person who always tried to see the positive side of life.
“He had the purest heart. Never did nothing to nobody,” a family member said.
Now, relatives are grappling with the loss.
“It’s the worst pain I’ve ever felt in my life,” his sister, Lanai Sutton, said. “Knowing that I will never get a chance to hug my brother again and tell him I love him.”
Police said thousands of people gathered at a shopping center parking lot off campus after Delaware State University required homecoming visitors to leave campus by 6 p.m. Authorities said a gunman opened fire, and Cox was caught in the crossfire.
“I just know it’s devastating and it’s unfortunate that’s like my little brother,” Aaron Sutton said. “I don’t try to think too much into what happened. I just know he didn’t deserve that.”
As investigators continue to examine the shooting, family members said they are remembering Cox for the joy he brought to others. They said he enjoyed making people laugh and often created TikTok videos that went viral.
Originally from North Philadelphia, Cox’s family says he never focused on negativity.
“My brother chose the other route. He chose to make an impact. He chose to just remain positive,” Lanai Sutton said.
Relatives are trying to carry on that positivity as they honor his memory.
“He was a beautiful soul,” Aaron Sutton said.
Dover police are asking anyone with information about the shooting, including video from the scene, to contact investigators in the Dover Police Department Criminal Investigations Unit at 302-736-7111. Tips may also be submitted through Dover Police Department’s online contact form. Authorities said tipsters can remain anonymous.
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