My son, Nyquarious Antwon Gates, was the most loving person God created, and he was taken from his family due to a tragic accident. Friends just having a normal day spending time together ended in tears, heartache, and sadness because everyone just wanted to have a good time and enjoy their time as teenagers without thinking of their safety first and fun later.

A call at 9:18 pm changed my entire life, informing me that my 22-year-old son was struck in the chest by a single bullet. When I arrived at the scene, I saw his lifeless body in the ambulance, and it tore my heart to pieces. I still haven't processed the emotions that I should feel because I don't want to fall apart; my mother and my other kids need me to be there for them.

The young man that discharged the fatal shot was a very close friend to his younger brother, and just 2 weeks prior, we were all at the house celebrating my niece's 6th birthday together, eating cake and ice cream. To hear that this same young man was the shooter in the situation just completely crushed my spirits. Loved by all and hated by none, everyone loved Nyquarious dearly because his heart was so pure and sweet that a stranger would feel loved in his presence, and I was truly honored to be his parent.

Any help that someone can contribute would be a blessing to me and my family because generosity is the greatest gift anyone can give. I thank each and everyone that called and came by to support me in this time of need because I really need love to fill my heart during this awful time for me and my family.