MIAMI GARDENS, Fla. – As photos of George Harris Jr. flashed across a mobile billboard, dozens of people, including his mother and friends, filled the same park where the teen often played football.
“It’s just sad right now, 13 years old he should be here,” said Liberty City Warriors Head Coach Shanton Crummie. “He should be at my practice right now.”
Harris’ football coach and fellow teammates were part of Wednesday night’s prayer vigil that also heard from those impacted by gun violence who had motivational messages for the people in attendance.
It was Saturday night when Harris was fatally shot inside a Miami Gardens home on Northwest 207th street near 38th Avenue while playing video games with friends.
A gun went off and struck Harris in the back of the head. Police believe the kids were playing with the weapon at the time.
A gun was later recovered outside of the house, but it’s unclear how it ties to the scene.
“He was a smart intelligent kid and he always did what he had to do,” said Harris’ teammate King Anderson.
Luther Campbell, who runs the optimist program, was also there to show his support.
Harris’ No. 14 jersey was held up at end of the night.
“Right now it’s just a somber moment with the family being here and his two little sisters being here and seeing their emotions and the kids emotions and seeing the turn out that you can tell George was loved very much,” said Crummie.