A memorial event organized for a 17-year-old who lost his life while commuting to work in Northeast DC
On Friday night, a vigil was held to commemorate the life of Antonio Cunningham, the 17-year-old victim of a fatal shooting in the Brentwood neighbourhood of Northeast D.C. The event was attended by numerous people who came together to honor the young man’s memory.
At approximately 4:30 p.m. on Monday, a shooting incident took place on Washington Place NE.
As Cunningham was heading to his workplace at Jersey Mike’s, his life was tragically cut short when he was shot and killed just outside the store. Fortunately, the other man who was also shot is expected to make a full recovery.
The sandwich shop now has one window covered in plywood due to bullets that penetrated through it.
“They’re taking too many of our babies because that child was a baby,” one woman said at the vigil.
Reginald Key, a family friend, said Cunningham was “great.”
“He was raised right. He had a father, he had a mother. He had a whole family. They really loved him and they took that from us,” he said.
According to Cunningham’s grandfather, he was heading to work at Jersey Mike’s when someone attempted to rob him right outside.
“It’s hurtful and it’s a coward act for somebody just to take a life, period,” his grandfather said.
“His style, his smile, his charisma. He was a good kid, going to school, helping his siblings, back and forth to school doing things,” he added.
Key, also a neighborhood violence interrupter, said he’s trying to get kids a job and training in the neighborhood but he can’t do it alone.
“Let’s come up with a solution. We got to find a way to stop this killing in Washington, D.C., especially of the young children,” Key said.
In a heartfelt statement, Cunningham’s grandfather, Edward Johnson, directed a message to the younger generation, urging them to stay safe. He also sternly warned those involved in criminal activities, reminding them that their time is up. His powerful words carry a significant impact and serve as a reminder that crime and violence will not be tolerated.
The current focus is on supporting the family and honouring the life taken too soon, despite the desire for District leaders to take further action.
As of Friday night, the Metropolitan Police had not released any photos or videos of potential suspects in the ongoing investigation. The motive behind the incident remains under investigation.
In the meantime, the Cunningham family is receiving a generous donation from Jersey Mike’s, as 20% of all profits from sales until Sunday are being given to them. This kindness from the popular sandwich chain is greatly appreciated and will undoubtedly help the family during this difficult time.
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