The Westwood community came together in grief this week to honor 17-year-old Jayshawn Cornelius, who was tragically killed in a drive-by shooting inside his own home, with loved ones releasing balloons in front of the house where his life was senselessly taken. Local 12 reported that his aunt Regina emphasized his respectful nature, ingrained by a family who prioritized such values, highlighting what was stolen not just from them but the community, "He was raised on respect. We transferred that down to our kids. So, our kids were very respectful. Open doors for ladies. Yes, ma'am. No, ma'am."
In a display marred by grief and the stark visual of bullet holes still visible on the family's home, those who knew Jayshawn mourned a boy described as angelic but with a spirit too vast for this world as they watched the balloons drift skyward, this poignant scene reported by both FOX19 NOW and WLWT. The Cincinnati Police Department is still searching for the perpetrator responsible for firing more than a dozen bullets into the Cornelius residence, killing Jayshawn and leaving his family and the community to ask, "Why?"
Despite the Cincinnati Police Department's investigation and multiple witnesses talking with authorities, no suspect information has been released as of yet. Jayshawn's future was cut tragically short around 1:30 a.m. Tuesday, and as his family spokesperson Sam Malone said in a statement obtained by WLWT, "A 17-year-old is gone for no reason. He wasn't in the streets. He was a good, healthy, vibrant kid."
Remembered for his servant's heart, Cornelius was entering the 11th grade at Hughes STEM High School and aspired to become a mechanic; his passion for cars was a beacon for his loved ones, who now seek justice alongside their pain. The balloon vigil, a gesture of love and farewell, encapsulated their heartfelt tributes, punctuated by the raw emotion of loss as Jayshawn's aunt Regina told FOX19 NOW, "He was an angel. An angel that was gone way too soon."
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