DETROIT – A neighborhood torn apart, a family grieving, as a community still tries to come to terms with the death of 4-year-old Samir Grubbs.
His mother, Jasmine, is taking it one day at a time.
“He was definitely a light that everybody loved. It’s been hard, definitely hard, but it’s one of those things that I definitely get on my knees every night and I pray about it,” said Jasmine.
The candlelight vigil taking place only feet from where that tragic shooting took place, which also took the life of an 18-year-old, is more about honoring Samir’s memory.
“This is kind of rewarding for us to celebrate him today and the rest of the weekend,” said community Activist Revered Rideout.
Rideout was also very close to Samir, recalling his final conversation with the 4-year-old on the phone.
“He said to me before we hung up, I love you, Pastor. And then days later, I had to get this call. So that has torn my heart, that has torn her heart,” Rideout said.
As the city of Detroit struggles with multiple shootings involving teenagers and children, Jasmine says she’ll come to this park because it wasn’t the park that killed her son, but a senseless act of violence.
“Yes, I will come to this park. No, ain’t nothing wrong with me. It’s me knowing that my son’s spirit is still here,” Jasmine said.
This was only Samir’s second time going to the park.
People there say they want the name of the park changed to Samir Grubbs Park.
Two people remain in custody for the shooting.