About 40 people attended a candlelight vigil on Sunday night for Jamarcus Allen, the 4-year-old shot to death on Wednesday.
The vigil, including family members and supporters, was at the corner of South Arlington Street and Davies Avenue, where Jamarcus was shot. Balloons were placed at the corner to mark the location, and a stuffed animal set in the snow nearby.
A fund in Jamarcus’ memory has been set up through FirstMerit Bank; contributions can be made at local branches.
The vigil had many tears and hugs, as well as some smiles when people recalled the boy as full of joy.
Jamarcus was shot in the car of his father, Terrance Allen, as they were driving on South Arlington. Police have said it appears that Jamarcus found his father’s pistol and shot himself in the head.
Allen is charged with involuntary manslaughter, child endangering and illegal weapons possession, because a prior felony conviction barred him from carrying a firearm. He is currently in the Summit County Jail.
At the vigil, Jamarcus’ uncle Leonard Younger had harsh words about Allen. But, like others who spoke at the event, he hoped that some good could come from Jamarcus’ death.
He said he hoped, for one thing, that people would get rid of their guns.
“Let God be your weapon,” he said.
