A grieving Queens community came together Monday night as a mother publicly mourned the tragic loss of her 15-year-old son, who was fatally shot at a local park last week in an incident that has shaken residents and sparked calls for swift justice.
Hundreds gathered at Roy Wilkins Park on April 20 for a candlelight vigil honoring Jaden Pierre, who was beaten and shot during what authorities say began as a water balloon fight on April 16. The emotional gathering unfolded just steps away from where the teenager lost his life.
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Jaden’s mother, Shanelle Weston, broke down in anguish as she pleaded for justice for her “baby,” her cries echoing across the basketball court filled with mourners. Friends, family, and community members, many visibly shaken, held one another, wept openly, and prayed together as gospel music played in the background.
Jaden’s father, Gardy Pierre, also addressed the crowd, expressing his deep love for his son. “I love you, Jaden, with everything in me, my heart, my blood, my soul,” he said, struggling through emotion.
The vigil drew several public figures, including New York Attorney General Letitia James, who comforted Weston as she collapsed in grief. Speaking to attendees, James revealed that authorities have identified the suspect.
“Police know who is responsible and where he is,” she said, urging the individual to surrender immediately. “Turn yourself in before law enforcement or the community finds you.”
Despite those assurances, frustration among residents was palpable. Some attendees voiced anger over delays in an arrest, warning that community members may take matters into their own hands if justice is not swiftly served.
“We are all hurting, and we want answers,” said Ramel Jones, a relative of the victim. “Justice will come, whether through the system or the streets.”
Community leaders also emphasized the broader issue of youth violence and gun access. Public Advocate Jumaane Williams delivered an emotional appeal, condemning what he described as a culture desensitized to violence.
“This child was beaten and shot while people stood by and recorded it,” Williams said. “Why didn’t anyone put the phone down and help? This obsession with guns in this country is destroying our children.”
The vigil concluded with mourners releasing white balloons into the sky, followed by a candle-lighting ceremony at the site of the shooting.
As of Tuesday morning, the suspect seen in video footage firing the fatal shot remains at large. Authorities continue to urge anyone with information to come forward as the investigation intensifies.
