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Loved ones remember teen killed in local park

Posted at 11:21 PM, Jan 20, 2018
and last updated 2018-01-22 15:32:12-05

A teen who made people smile. Jovanni Grimes' loved ones gathered at Lewis Family Park Saturday night - in the same spot where he was gunned down on Thursday.

Xavier Acosta, Jovanni's brother, says, "He's always shining no matter what he's doing."

India Kirkland, a friend of the 16-year-old victim, says, "He's just so nice. He's always laughing."

Lewis Family Park is a popular hangout spot for teens after school.

But Mya Harvey tells 13 Action News, "Since it happened here, it doesn't feel the same anymore."

Police found Grimes dead on the street. Investigators say Grimes and his friend got into a fight with two other boys, which led to a shooting.

Concerned residents now want to see changes made -- more lighting, cameras, and increased patrols.

"Have enforcement come over just once in a while, to check. To make sure everything is going okay over here. Because there are a lot of kids that hang out after school," says Candace Maxwell. 

County Commissioner Chris Giunchigliani told 13 Action News she is trying secure funding to improve old parks which will include new safety and security measures.

Meanwhile, as Grimes' family and friends seek justice this thought is their only consolation:

"This is not goodbye forever. But a farewell 'til we meet again my friend," says Harvey.

The shooters are believed to be between ages 16-18 years old, both medium build. One of them has facial hair. Police say they fled in a small dark vehicle. 

Anyone with information about this case should call police at (702) 385-5555.