A tragic accident in Syracuse has claimed the lives of two teenage friends, Jonah Tanner, 13, and Damarion Jones, 16. According to the Syracuse Police Department and Onondaga County District Attorney William Fitzpatrick, the two boys were found with gunshot wounds on June 24.

First responders pronounced Damarion dead at the scene, while Jonah was rushed to a local hospital. Unfortunately, Jonah’s family later announced that he had been declared brain dead and that they were in the process of donating his organs.

The investigation into the incident suggests that Damarion accidentally shot Jonah, and in a state of panic, he then shot himself. The community has come together to support the families of the two boys, with separate GoFundMe campaigns established to help with funeral expenses.

A joint burial is being planned, with a fundraiser describing the pair as ‘inseparable’ teenagers who ‘shared every moment and supported one another through everything.’ The community held a vigil to remember the boys, with Jonah’s mother remembering her son’s distinct personality and his passion for football and fashion.

Damarion’s mother also shared a statement, describing her son as a bright, helpful teenager who made a positive impact on those around him. The families are currently utilizing the online fundraisers to secure enough financial support to lay the two best friends to rest side by side.

Original reporting: Tampa Free Press — read the source article.