Heart-breaking footage of a boy who was killed while celebrating with a stack of cash at a prom 'parking lot party' has surfaced - the boy was slain in a horrific armed robbery before his graduation
The tragic final moments of a teenager who was killed at a "parking lot party" have surfaced after an armed gunman shot him over a stack of money he was celebrating with before his prom night. Deon L. Wiley III, 17, lost his life in the horror shooting moments after posting a video of him "flexing" cash before he was set to travel to celebrate his prom.
The horrific shooting occurred at midday on Friday, May 22 in Washington Avenue, Michigan. The Saginaw United High schoolboy's killer still remains at large.
The clip, which has gone viral on social media, shows Deon standing in front of a while car, holding a large pile of money, while flashing it around. Another clip shows him alongside what we assume is his prom date, before later standing next to another friend who also flaunts some cash.
After the shooting, Precious Sherman, Deon's mother, spoke to local news outlets about what her son was like during his life. In a heartfelt statement she said: "My son had a bright spirit - he lit the room up."
Detective Sergeant Oscar Lopez has condemned the shooting calling it "senseless" and sharing his condolences with those effected. The Detective Sergeant said: "This is a tragic and senseless act of violence that deeply impacts our community."
He added: "Incidents like this are heart-breaking for the victim's family, friends, and for the entire City of Saginaw."
On Tuesday, Deon was due to walk across the stage with his fellow classmates for his graduation. In his place, his mother Precious accepted his diploma after being welcomed to the stage by the Saginaw United High School principal.
Principal Eric Gordon said, during the emotional moment: "Last but not least, we would like to recognize one of our graduates: His mother, Precious Sherman, will be accepting on his behalf."
Charles Coleman, president of the district's school board, issued a heartfelt statement to Deon's fellow pupils during the graduation ceremony. Coleman said: "This is a difficult moment for us as we both celebrate and mourn."
He added: "We celebrate because we started a journey 13 years ago when we started kindergarten. We mourn because our friend, our classmate, Deon Wiley, is not here to celebrate. Remember Deon in everything that he brought with him, as a friend, as an associate, as a classmate."
Numerous people online have penned condolences for Deon L. Wiley III and has family. A GoFundMe has also been launched to help support the 17-year-old's family during this difficult time.
Sharing his thoughts online James Rhoden said: "On behalf of our family, we extend our heartfelt condolences and prayers to Deon Willey's family and loved ones.
"Deon will always be remembered as a respectful and bright young man whose life touched many. As one of his teachers, I truly found it a blessing to know him. We pray for comfort, strength, and peace during this difficult time."
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