Carter L. Clemons, a 6-year-old boy from Miamisburg, Ohio, tragically lost his life on February 1, 2019. Carter was a first-grader at Richard Allen Elementary School, known for his love of dinosaurs and his stellar grades. He was described by his mother, Di’Eshia Patterson, as a smart and funny child who enjoyed reading and collecting books about dinosaurs.
On the day of his death, Carter was shot by his mother's boyfriend, Jovonie L. McClendon Jr., who then took his own life.
The incident was later classified as a murder-suicide. Di’Eshia Patterson, who survived the shooting, was left with severe injuries and spent 16 days in the hospital before making a remarkable recovery. She has since spoken out about the pain of losing her son and the challenges she faced during her recovery.
The tragic event shook the community, and friends and family gathered to remember Carter on what would have been his 7th birthday. They released balloons at his grave in Moraine, Ohio, as a tribute to his memory. The case did not lead to any arrests or ongoing litigation, as the perpetrator died by suicide at the scene.
Carter's story is a heartbreaking reminder of the impact of gun violence on families and communities. His mother continues to honor his memory and advocate for mental health support and counseling services for those in need.
