Jontae is my brother—my best friend—and the heart of our family. He went missing on March 10th in Brooklyn Park after an altercation with a friend, and nothing has been the same since. My brother is bright, loving, and incredibly intelligent. He has a way of bringing positive energy wherever he goes—he’s the kind of person who lights up every room just by being in it. Jontae has always been passionate about music, art, reading, and nature. He means everything to us—not just as my brother, but as a son, cousin, nephew, grandson, friend, and a proud, loving uncle. Our family misses him more than words can explain, and every day without him has been extremely painful.

On March 31st, we came together to celebrate his 27th birthday with a candlelight vigil, holding onto hope and faith that he will come back home to us. Since the day he disappeared, we’ve been searching for answers. We feel deeply that his case has not received the urgency or attention it deserves—especially in those critical first 48 hours. As a family of color, it’s hard not to feel overlooked and unsupported during one of the hardest times in our lives.

We are raising funds to hire a private investigator and legal support so we can make sure my brother’s case is handled thoroughly and with the urgency it deserves. These resources will help us keep his case active, continue searching for answers, and most importantly, bring him home. Please—your support could make all the difference in helping us find Jontae and bring him back to the family who loves him so much. #JontaesLifeMatters