Larry James Graham, a 17-year-old from Winter Haven, Florida, tragically lost his life on May 23, 2016. Larry was a student at Auburndale Senior High School and was known for his love of skating, soccer, baseball, basketball, hunting, fishing, running, and music. He was also a member of the high school band. On the night of his death, Larry was walking towards a house on Kim Street in Auburndale when he was confronted by a man wearing a gray ski mask who pointed a shotgun at him. Moments later, Larry was shot in the face and died instantly. Witnesses reported seeing the gunman flee towards a waiting truck, which was later identified as a stolen vehicle.
The investigation into Larry's death led to the arrest of two suspects, Todd Gates Jr. and Jacob Byers, both of whom were 19 years old at the time. They were charged with first-degree murder, attempted armed robbery, conspiracy to commit armed robbery, and grand theft. Gates faced additional charges of tampering with physical evidence and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. The suspects were identified as being with Larry during the botched robbery that led to his death. Gates was already in jail at the time of his arrest, while Byers turned himself in to the Polk County Jail.
As the case progressed, witnesses began changing their stories, which complicated the prosecution's efforts. Ultimately, both Gates and Byers accepted plea deals to lesser charges of manslaughter. Byers was sentenced to 15 years in prison and agreed to testify against Gates, although this became unnecessary when Gates also accepted a plea deal. Gates was sentenced to 25 years in prison, followed by two years of probation. The grand theft charge against Gates was dropped as part of the plea agreement.
Larry's death was a devastating loss for his family and community. He was remembered fondly by those who knew him, and his passing left a significant impact on his loved ones. The legal proceedings brought some measure of justice, but the pain of his loss remains.
