Community members gathered Wednesday evening to remember the life of Jordan Edwards, the unarmed 15-year-old who was shot and killed by a Balch Springs Police officer on Saturday.
The interfaith prayer vigil was held at Agape Temple AME Church on Mingo St. in Dallas.
Religious leaders from all faiths were joined by local and national civil rights activists. Among those present were Cornell Brooks, the national president of the NAACP, and social justice leader Shaun King.
Most of the people in the pews did not know Jordan Edwards personally.
“No, but I know a Jordan. I have a son that is 11 years old sitting right next to me,” said church member Freedom McAdoo.
Community members said they feel Jordan’s family’s pain – as they carry their own.
“That could be my cousin, that could be my uncle, that could be my brother,” said Camilia Williams. “It’s very scary. Especially because my brother is a young black man.”
Jordan’s family wants the officer who shot and killed him with a rifle, Roy Oliver, to be charged with murder.
The community wants justice.
“Jordan Edwards’ killing shakes the foundation of American society,” said John Fullinwider, with Mothers Against Police Brutality.
Oliver was terminated from the Balch Springs Police Department on Tuesday. He plans to appeal.
Another candlelight vigil will be held for Jordan Edwards on Thursday at 7 p.m. near the site of the shooting on Barron Drive in Balch Springs.
Jordan’s family has asked that people do not protest or march in his name until after he is laid to rest. His funeral will be held on Saturday.
