GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. – Nearly one month after the tragic shooting of 15-year-old Amillier Penn during a neighborhood football game, police are still piecing together the events and searching for leads. The community and local authorities are now banding together in hopes of uncovering any information that could lead to an arrest.
Amillier was fatally shot on June 2 while playing with friends on the 400 block of Umatilla Street. The incident, which occurred in broad daylight amidst mild weather conditions, has raised numerous concerns about safety in the area. Amillier was not in possession of any weapons, and his untimely death was officially ruled a homicide.
The lack of arrests has spurred the Grand Rapids Police Department to extend a public appeal for assistance. Chief Eric Winstrom emphasized the importance of community involvement, noting that various witnesses were outdoors at the time of the killing. “Anyone who might have seen or heard anything unusual around the time of Amillier’s death could have information crucial to solving this case,” Winstrom stated. He urged the community to report even minor details, which may significantly aid the investigation.
Authorities are particularly interested in locating the driver of an Enterprise truck captured on a nearby dash camera around the time of the shooting. They hope that the driver might provide additional insights or evidence related to the incident.
The pain of the loss has resonated not only locally but also globally. Amillier’s cousin, Bardha Kurti, shared that family members as far away as Albania and across Europe are mourning his death. Reflecting the depth of their grief, Kurti made a heartfelt appeal to the perpetrator: “Turn yourself in. Make things easier for everyone involved and please don’t cause more harm. Our family doesn’t want any other family to endure this kind of pain.”
In an effort to stimulate tips from the public, West Michigan Silent Observer has announced a reward of $3,200 for information leading to an arrest in the shooting.
Community members with any information are being urged to come forward and contact the Grand Rapids Police Department or Silent Observer. The cooperation between public law enforcement and the community is crucial in bringing justice for Amillier and his family.
In response to the tragedy, local community leaders are also emphasizing the need for enhanced safety measures and youth engagement programs to prevent future incidents of this nature. The community hopes that resolving Amillier’s case will restore a sense of safety and peace to the area affected by this and other recent acts of violence.
As the investigation continues, the memory of Amillier, described as a vibrant and integral part of his family, remains at the forefront of efforts to resolve this heartbreaking incident. The collective plea for closure and justice echoes throughout Grand Rapids, uniting its residents in hope and determination.