On November 5, 2024, 16-year-old Damariion Henton, a student at Polytechnic High School in Fort Worth, Texas, tragically lost his life in an accidental shooting. The incident occurred at a residence in the 3500 block of Avenue L, where Henton was visiting his girlfriend's home. According to reports, a 14-year-old relative of his girlfriend was handling a handgun when it discharged, striking Henton in the neck.
Emergency medical personnel responded promptly but were unable to save him; he was pronounced dead at the scene.
Henton's mother, Ashley Lemmons, who is currently battling cancer, described her son as a well-mannered and academically accomplished individual. She recalled that teachers often praised him, expressing a desire to "reproduce him" due to his exemplary behavior and character. Lemmons recounted her last interaction with her son, mentioning that she had hugged him before he left for his girlfriend's house that evening. The news of his untimely death has left her and their family devastated, especially considering her ongoing health struggles.
In the aftermath of the incident, Fort Worth police conducted interviews, including with the 14-year-old involved in the shooting. As of the latest available information, no arrests have been made. The investigation is ongoing, and due to the involvement of juveniles, specific details have been limited. Lemmons has expressed a complex mix of emotions, stating that while she forgives the young individual responsible, she believes there should be some level of accountability. She also emphasized the importance of educating youths about the dangers of handling firearms to prevent such tragedies in the future.
The Fort Worth Independent School District has extended condolences to Henton's family and has provided additional counseling services at Polytechnic High School to support students and staff during this difficult time. Community members have rallied around the family, offering support and assistance, especially in light of Lemmons' medical condition and the financial burdens associated with her son's funeral expenses.
