Damani Henard, a 14-year-old boy, was tragically shot and killed on July 3, 2013, while riding his bicycle in Chicago’s Austin neighborhood. Henard, who had recently graduated from West Park Academy and was set to attend Oak Park and River Forest High School in the fall, was targeted in what his family believes was a case of mistaken identity. Two assailants ran across North Avenue and shot him as he was riding his bike. Despite witnesses and a passerby who held him as he lay in the street, Damani died at the scene from his injuries.
Damani’s death deeply impacted his family and community. His mother, Yolanda Paige, moved to Oak Park to protect him from gang violence, only for him to be gunned down while visiting his former neighborhood. His family remembers him as a kind, loving teenager who enjoyed sports, skateboarding, and spending time with family and friends. Despite ongoing investigations, witnesses have been reluctant to come forward, and his case remains unsolved. His family continues to seek justice for his senseless murder
