The Story of Stevie Gray: A Life Cut Short by Violence
This story is part of The Dallas Morning News’ homicide project focused on sharing the stories of all people killed in Dallas in 2024.
I’ve got my own guardian angel and he’s handsome, wrote Calissa Gray, 18, on Facebook, next to a picture of her father.
The Dallas Morning News is telling the stories of people killed in homicides in 2024 to show the toll of violent crime in Dallas. Reporting has probed what officials are doing to address a crime that claimed at least 246 lives in 2023.
Remembering Stevie Gray
In the photo, Stevie Gray stands in front of a glistening lake, wearing an all-black ensemble with a backwards cap and a gentle smile. His hand grips a long, black fishing pole. Behind him, large, feathery angel wings have been sketched. Above him, a glowing halo. The song “Godspeed” by Frank Ocean plays at the bottom of the image.
Stevie Gray, 40, was fatally shot on Aug. 18 in the 8300 block of La Prada Drive in Far East Dallas.(Courtesy of Calissa Gray)
The Impact of Violent Crime
Crime in The News
“He always made other people laugh and made them feel good about themselves,” Calissa said. “He was always caring.”
The Incident
On Aug. 18, 2024, Stevie and a family member were caught in a verbal altercation with several men in the 8300 block of La Prada Drive in Far East Dallas. The altercation ended in gunfire. Stevie was shot and killed, while his family member escaped with a grazed hand.
Two weeks later, police arrested the suspected shooter, 21-year-old Keland Turner. In an arrest-warrant affidavit, officials wrote Stevie did not appear to be the target of the shooting.
Turner was indicted on charges of manslaughter and aggravated assault with a deadly weapon in November, court records show.
Related:21-year-old faces murder charge in Far East Dallas shootout that killed 1, injured another
Remembering Stevie’s Life
Calissa recalled how Stevie’s love was often demonstrated through parties he would host, gatherings that brought her relatives together.
“He was a very big family person,” Calissa said. “So anytime we would have a family meet up or something, he would grill.”
Outside of spending time with his family, Stevie mostly stayed to himself, namely fishing or going to the gym.
“He was definitely introverted,” Calissa said.
Calissa said her father sought to bring out her and her three siblings’ potential, even if it meant enforcing rules she didn’t agree with.
“He was a very good man, but he had a strict personality, especially since he had two daughters,” Calissa said. “But he definitely loved us a lot more than anything else in the world.”
Legacy Lives On
Now out of school, Calissa is continuing to apply the wisdom her father had shared. She said his words keep her from becoming distracted.
“He said that no matter what else is going on in the world, always stay on track and build a career for yourself,” she said.
This story was produced in partnership with Southern Methodist University.
Conclusion
The story of Stevie Gray is a tragic reminder of the impact of violent crime on families and communities. His legacy lives on through his daughter Calissa, who continues to apply the wisdom he shared with her. As the city of Dallas works to address the toll of violent crime, it is essential to remember the stories of those who have been lost and to work towards creating a safer and more just community for all.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What happened to Stevie Gray?
A: Stevie Gray was fatally shot on Aug. 18, 2024, in the 8300 block of La Prada Drive in Far East Dallas.
Q: Who was arrested in connection with Stevie’s death?
A: 21-year-old Keland Turner was arrested and indicted on charges of manslaughter and aggravated assault with a deadly weapon.
Q: What was Stevie like as a person?
A: Stevie was a caring and family-oriented person who loved to host parties and gatherings for his relatives. He was also introverted and enjoyed activities like fishing and going to the gym.
Q: How is Stevie’s legacy living on?
A: Stevie’s legacy is living on through his daughter Calissa, who is continuing to apply the wisdom he shared with her and is working to build a career for herself.
