On Wednesday evening, the Farm and Flame restaurant in downtown Vero Beach became a place of remembrance and resolve as more than a hundred residents gathered to honor the life of 17‑year‑old Sulli Bah. The young man, known for his bright smile and friendly demeanor, was tragically killed last Friday during a gathering at the Garcia Boat Ramp.
Family remembers a “joyful, happy” son
Chelynn Godfrey, Bah’s mother, spoke through tears, describing her son as “just joyful, happy all the time” and noting that his contagious smile lifted the spirits of everyone he met. While family members called him Sulliman, friends and coworkers knew him as Sulli, a nickname that reflected his warm, approachable nature.
“That was just very important to him, that he made people feel good, that he made people feel seen,” Godfrey said, emphasizing the lasting impact of her son’s kindness on the community.
Details of the shooting
According to video released by the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office, Bah opened the door of a white pickup truck at the boat ramp when the passenger inside fired a single shot, striking the teenager. No arrests have been made to date.
Sheriff Eric Flowers reported that the alleged shooter claims the incident occurred after a fight between him and Bah and that he fired in self‑defense. Godfrey rejected that explanation, stating, “I believe that my son was murdered. And I believe that the shooter needs to be punished for that.”
Community response and ongoing investigation
The vigil began with a prayer, followed by friends sharing memories of Sulli’s kindness and expressing a collective desire for justice. One friend, fighting back tears, described him as “a kind soul.”
Flowers indicated that the investigation remains active and that the State Attorney’s Office will ultimately decide whether criminal charges will be filed.
Why the gathering matters
For many in Vero Beach, the gathering was more than a memorial; it was a public affirmation of the community’s commitment to stand with the Bah family and to demand a thorough, transparent investigation. The event highlighted the importance of local solidarity in the face of violent crime and underscored the role of faith‑based prayer in seeking comfort and justice.
Local leaders and faith‑based organizations have expressed support for the family, urging law‑enforcement officials to pursue all leads and to keep the public informed as the case progresses.
Looking ahead
As the investigation continues, residents hope that the attention drawn by the vigil will help ensure accountability and bring closure to a family and community still reeling from loss. The Vero Beach community remains united in its call for justice, prayer, and a safe environment for all its young people.
Original reporting: WPBF West Palm Beach — read the source article.
