Family and friends gathered Saturday evening to celebrate the life of 14-year-old Jahlil Brown, a victim of gun violence in Louisville’s Cloverleaf neighborhood. Loved ones released red and silver balloons on Gagel Avenue, where police say Jahlil was killed during a shooting on July 11.

A Life Cut Short

Jahlil’s mother, Yashica King, said she is determined to find out what happened to her son. ‘I’m going to find out what happened to my baby,’ King said. As she mourned the loss of her son, she said no parent should have to endure the pain of burying a child.

Jahlil’s aunt, Candice Tooley, described the family’s grief as overwhelming. ‘It was horrible. Like a nightmare that you don’t wake up,’ Tooley said. She said Jahlil was known for his kindness, humor, and the joy he brought to everyone around him. ‘Jahlil was everything to everyone,’ Tooley said. ‘He was a ray of light. He was sunshine.’

Tooley also delivered a message to anyone considering picking up a gun, urging them to think about the lasting consequences of a split-second decision. ‘Is it ever that serious? Use your brain. Use your common sense. Learn to walk away,’ Tooley said.

A Community in Mourning

Louisville Metro Police continue to investigate the shooting. No arrests have been made. The community is coming together to support Jahlil’s family and to call for an end to gun violence.

Original reporting: WLKY Louisville — read the source article.