Hundreds march against violence after teen killed

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Hundreds of residents took to the streets on Saturday to walk against violence in the wake of the killing of Shawnaton Chase, 13, less than a week ago.

It was a sobering sight as people of all ages and abilities journeyed from the Kendal Hill Gas Station to the Silver Hill Hard Court, many carrying placards that showed other victims of gun violence.

At one point, the emotional toll proved too much for Chase’s mother, who, along with his father, took part in the walk. She became overcome with grief and had to be assisted.

The teen was killed after two gunmen fired in the direction of the hardcourt in Silver Hill, where he and others were watching a netball game.

Ordeen Springer, aunt, said she was encouraged by the support.

“It’s good to see how persons came to support [even though] they don’t know [us]…We are really grateful for that support. It’s overwhelming.”

“Walking along the streets, I heard people talking about it. They don’t know him, but they were talking about it as if he was one of their own, so that was comforting. We just want to say thanks to everybody.”

Springer said although it is a difficult time for the family, they are trying their best to hold it together.

At the hard court, Lucius Louis, who is from the area, delivered poignant words about the cycle of violence on the streets that often leads to death.

“It only took four pounds of force to shoot the gun that took Shawnaton from us, and when a bullet leaves that barrel, there’s nothing that can stop it, and whoever is in the path of that bullet will be hit.

“Less than a week ago, Shawnaton found himself on the other end of a barrel, something a 13-year-old should never have to deal with.”

Tyrone Marshall, Principal of the Milton Lynch Primary School said  Shawnaton was a model student who was very respectful and obedient.

“He left his mark. He came, he saw, and he conquered our hearts. May God continue to bless his family, and may God continue to bless this environment. If his death [communicates] anything [I hope] it speaks to the hearts of all young men to remember you’re not too young to lie, you’re not too young to steal, you’re not too young to die, you’re not too young then to serve the Lord.”

Meantime, the Silver Hill SDA Church has offered its services to the family. Church elder Dale Hardy said the church cannot separate itself from the community.

“We have decided that a problem in Silver Hill is our personal problem, and we decided, on this Sabbath day, to come out and to march with and provide not only our support but to say to [residents], ‘our church annex is open, and we will allow people to use it for any community activity’.

“Many of us don’t live in this community, but we love this community. The Silver Hill you read about is not the Silver Hill we’ve experienced…We are very sad to know this young man lost his life in such a tragic manner.”

Hardy said the church’s pastor has visited the family and offered the services of the church. (BT)