Arlington, Texas – The community at Lamar High School in Arlington, Texas, still mourns the tragic loss of Ja’Shawn Poirier, a student who was fatally shot on campus a year ago, just weeks before his 17th birthday. To mark the anniversary of his death, family, friends, and educators gathered on Wednesday night at the high school to remember and honor Poirier.
Poirier’s mother, Rashone Jacob, expressed that the pain of losing her son remains as raw as ever, yet she found solace in coming together with others to commemorate his life. Reflecting on the events of March 20, 2023, when Poirier was fatally shot by another juvenile student on the school steps, Jacob shared her ongoing struggle to come to terms with the tragedy.
Despite the heart-wrenching loss, those who knew Poirier congregated to release balloons in his favorite color, green, chanting “Forever sixteen” in unison to cherish his memory. In the wake of the tragedy, efforts have been made to preserve his legacy, including the installment of a plaque within the school premises and the establishment of a scholarship in his honor.
Amid the sorrow and longing for what could have been, Jacob expressed gratitude for the community’s continued support in commemorating her son and ensuring that his name lives on. She remains steadfast in her plea for all to remember the significance of March 20, 2023, and the impact it had on their lives.
The perpetrator, a juvenile student, was sentenced to 40 years in prison for the fatal shooting. While detectives have asserted that there was no known prior connection between Poirier and the shooter, the legal process continues with a pending hearing to determine the future course for the convicted juvenile.
As the community grapples with the lasting grief of losing a bright young life, they strive to find solace in honoring Poirier’s memory and advocating for justice in the wake of such a senseless tragedy. The support and unity displayed in remembrance of Poirier serve as a testament to the resilience and strength of the community in coping with profound loss and seeking closure.