Memorial Held for 16-year-old Girl Killed in Shooting During Street Fight in Fort Lauderdale

A Devastated Community Comes Together to Grieve

A devastated community came together in Fort Lauderdale to grieve the loss of a teenage girl due to gun violence. Lanterns flew high for Tanaejah Atterbury at a memorial held in her honor, Saturday night. “Long live Tanaejah!” attendees screamed as the lanterns floated into the air.

Mourners Describe Victim as Sweet and Gentle

Mourners described the victim as a sweet soul before, police said, her life was cut short at just 16 years old. “She really was kind, sweet, gentle,” said Sharday Heller, the victim’s mother.

Family and Friends Pay Tribute

Atterbury’s family and friends lit candles and lanterns and were united in prayer, as they remembered what made her special. “Father God, we ask that you watch over this family,” said a speaker at the memorial as she led mourners in prayer.

Details of the Tragic Incident

According to Fort Lauderdale Police, Atterbury was shot and killed during a fight that broke out between two groups on Northwest Eighth Avenue, near 15th Street, on February 17. Atterbury was not part of the fight, which was captured on cellphone video. Detectives said 17-year-old Isaiah Frazier opened fire into the crowd, sending onlookers running and striking Atterbury. One witness dialed 911 moments later. “Where’s the person that was shot?” said the dispatcher. “She’s on the floor. Come now, please,” said the caller.

Justice Served, but Grief Remains

Police arrested Frazier on Tuesday. “Yeah, we’re happy that justice was served,” said Shanell Heller, the victim’s aunt. But Atterbury’s family are now left with a hole in their hearts that cannot be filled. Her mother became emotional during the memorial, but she said she was moved by all the support her family is receiving. “It’s, like, really amazing, to see who her friends are, who her family [members], the support behind her,” said Sharday. “We’ve got to stop the violence, so we don’t have to be meeting up like this, to enjoy each other,” said Shanell.

Conclusion

The community came together to mourn the loss of a young life cut short by senseless violence. As the city works to heal and rebuild, it is crucial to acknowledge the devastating impact of gun violence on families and communities. It is our hope that this tragedy serves as a reminder of the urgent need to address the root causes of violence and to work towards a safer, more peaceful future.

FAQs

* What was the age of the victim?
+ 16 years old
* What was the cause of the fight that led to the shooting?
+ A dispute between two groups
* Who was arrested in connection with the shooting?
+ 17-year-old Isaiah Frazier
* What is the current status of Frazier’s case?
+ Held at Broward County’s Juvenile Assessment Center, with the possibility of being tried as an adult still being determined.