Fatal Shooting Sparks Community Vigil

RIVIERA BEACH, Fla. - An early morning shooting on Saturday in Riviera Beach leaves one man dead and sends another to the hospital.

On Saturday night, family and friends came together in remembrance of the shooting victim.

It was outside a home on the 500 block of West 5th Steet that Tyrell Jackson, 23, was allegedly gunned down by a drive by shooter. Jackson later died of his injuries but those who knew him are still trying to cope with the loss of Jackson and what lead to the shooting.

"He was my only son and I just loved him so much. He was a lovely person. Everybody loved Tyrell and I'm going to miss him," Wanda Chavers, the victim's mother.

Riviera Beach Police said on early Saturday morning, a car drove by Jackson and another man and fired shots out from the window.

Both men where hit but the injuries were too much for Jackson, who died shortly after being transported.

"What I think happened was that he was around someone he shouldn't have been around to be honest. It's your surroundings that makes you. He shouldn't have been around that person, period," said Takesia Jackson, the victim's sister.

Takesia Jackson said her brother was generous, down to earth and was always trying to help anyone who needed it.

Takesia Jackson also said her brother was gay.
"I have no offense to nobody that was gay. I mean yeah he dressed up but he wasn't the type that came on to someone if they came on to him," remarked an unnamed person at the vigil.

Those who knew Jackson question whether his sexuality played a part in his death. Investigators have yet to indicate.

Over come with emotions and memories of Jackson, his family had strong words for whoever is responsible.

"Just imagine that was your child. I know you have a heart but just look within yourself and do the right thing and turn yourself in," said Linzy Chavers, the victim's stepfather.

Those who gathered for the vigil say they wanted to send a message that what happened in their neighborhood was unacceptable and the community will not stand for it.

Anyone with any information is urged to call crime stoppers at 1-800-458-tips.