Martavius Tyrese "Tay Tay" Lewers, a 15-year-old African American male, tragically lost his life on July 28, 2015, in Rockford, Illinois. Born on August 17, 1999, Martavius was a member of Logos International and attended Auburn High School. He was known for his involvement in the church choir and his dedication to his studies.
On the night of his death, Martavius was in a second-floor room with other youths, reportedly called a studio where they made rap music and hung out.
A bullet was fired from outside through a window into the room, striking Martavius. The incident occurred shortly before 10:10 p.m. at West State Street and Day Avenue. Family members believe that Martavius was not the intended target of the shooting.
Following the tragic event, a candlelight vigil was held in Martavius' memory, attended by nearly 70 people. The vigil turned into a plea by parents to ensure their children stayed in school, attended church, avoided social media attacks, and adhered to curfews. Martavius' older sister, Markisha Eldridge, and his best friend, Jazmonique Homes, spoke about his kind nature and the senselessness of his death.
Despite the community's efforts to seek justice, no arrests have been made in connection with Martavius' death. The investigation remains open, and the Rockford Police continue to search for leads. Martavius' family and friends continue to mourn his loss and remember him as a good-hearted individual who was taken too soon.
