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Family Of Child Killed Push For Support To Find The Culprit(s)

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MIAMI (CBSMiami) — The family of a 10-year old killed in a shooting last month is pushing for greater community support to find his killer(s).

The family and friends of Marlon Eason spoke outside their home located at 1975 N.W. 4th Court.

"My family is torn," said Marlon's uncle, Richard Ruffin. "Marlon was the only child that resided in this home so the three adults who live here, our life revolved around that child, so when that child left the way he did - it's just an empty void."

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"This is totally unacceptable and must be stopped" said Rev. James Pacley, President of P.U.L.S.E. (People United To Lead The Struggle For Equality) who is also sponsoring the event. "We owe it to the Eason family and the community to bring these individuals to justice.  We are not safe as long as these criminals are able to live among us freely and commit murder."

Eason died after he was shot in the head while playing basketball on his front porch in Overtown. He had gone into the street to get his basketball and was struck by a bullet.

Back in March, a South Florida church congregation donated $1,000 to help find his killer(s).

"Our church decided that we'd put up a $1,000 reward with the three thousand dollar reward of crime stoppers and I'm here to challenge every church and every community leader to jump on board," said Pastor Eric Readon of New Beginning Missionary Baptist Church in Miami Gardens.

"By remaining silent, we're telling those responsible for the death of our children 'it's ok' they will do it again," said Ruffin, urging anyone with information to come forward.

Family and friends also begged for an end to the violence that took the life of this young boy.

"It has to stop. Please stop," said Marlon's basketball coach, Jeffrey Hoskins. "Look at these young men and these young ladies. Give them a chance like we have had to live.  Please stop the violence."

Anyone with information about the case is urged to call Miami-Dade Crime Stoppers at 305-471-tips. You may be eligible for a reward and can remain anonymous.

All this comes as juvenile crime has been rising but violent crime dropping in the City of Miami. According to police, young people are becoming the targets more than before.

 

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