On May 17, 2015, 14-year-old African American male Kelvin Lovelace of Wilkinsburg, Pennsylvania, was fatally shot in the East Hills neighborhood of Pittsburgh. The incident occurred shortly after 12:30 a.m. during a large gathering of approximately 200 people on Wilner Drive. Reports indicate that a vehicle drove up and opened fire into the crowd, leading to an exchange of gunfire.
Kelvin, affectionately known as "Fats," was struck during the shooting and was transported to UPMC Presbyterian Hospital, where he was pronounced dead.
Kelvin was an eighth-grade student at Friendship Academy, a school specializing in mental health and special education services. He was known for his love of sports, including football, basketball, and baseball. Friends and family described him as a sweet and outgoing individual who was well-respected in his community.
In the aftermath of the shooting, Pittsburgh police faced challenges in their investigation. Despite the presence of a large crowd and surveillance cameras in the area, no suspects were identified, and no arrests were made. Authorities distributed flyers and canvassed the neighborhood in hopes of gathering information, but the case remained unsolved.
The community responded with vigils and memorials to honor Kelvin's memory. Events included a candlelight vigil at Hunter Park in Wilkinsburg and a benefit at the Father Ryan Arts Center to support his family. Community members expressed frustration over the lack of progress in the investigation and called for justice.
As of now, the tragic death of 14-year-old African American male Kelvin Lovelace remains an open case, with authorities continuing to seek information that could lead to an arrest.
