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‘I Hope He’s at Rest’: Family Comes Together to Honor Two Teens Killed a Year Ago in Jefferson County

Community Remembering Two Teens Killed in Shooting One Year Ago

Forestdale, AL – On the evening of December 11, 2023, tragedy struck the Forestdale community as Johnathan Keith Cottingham, 13, and Louis Craig IV, 19, were shot and killed in a parking lot at an apartment complex on Chickasaw Drive. A vigil held on the one-year anniversary brought together family and friends to remember the young lives lost.

The vigil, led by Rev. James Williams of Pointe of Grace Church, was an emotionally charged gathering where grief was palpable. Shequita Cooper, mother of Craig, expressed her heartache, stating, “It’s been really hard. I had to bury my son five days before Christmas.” The devastating impact of the loss was felt deeply, particularly during the holiday season, as the community reflected on the senseless violence that claimed the teens’ lives.

The incident occurred shortly before 8 p.m. when Jefferson County Sheriff’s deputies responded to reports of gunfire. Upon arrival, they discovered a vehicle that had crashed into several parked cars, with Cottingham and Craig unresponsive inside. A third teen present at the scene sought help and was unharmed. Authorities have arrested 21-year-old Leon Walker Jr. on charges of capital murder, while a possible second shooter has not been identified.

As memories filled the air, Cooper described her son as caring and skilled, while Craig’s grandmother, Tanya Copeland, mourned the loss of her only grandson, saying, “Louis was so sweet and so humble.” The vigil concluded with attendees releasing balloons into the sky, symbolizing hope and remembrance amidst the sorrow. Cooper, reflecting on her loss, urged the community to recognize the dangers of misplaced trust, asserting, “Everybody is not your friend.” The tragedy continues to haunt their families and the entire community, highlighting the urgent need for change amidst rising violence.

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Photo credit www.al.com

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