SAVANNAH, Ga. () — The family of a murdered teen held a celebration of life ceremony for him on what would have been his 18th birthday.

Semaj Floyd was shot and killed in early December of 2023 near the intersection of Amaranth and Perth Streets. He was only 16 at the time.

Today, friends and family came together at Summerside Park to honor his life. People joined in a ceremonial balloon release in honor of his legacy.

Christopher Floyd, Semaj’s great-grandfather, expressed, “We decided to honor his life because we don’t want it to be forgotten. We believe that everything is under the Lord’s control, from our arrival to our departure. I don’t see it any other way. I believe everyone should gain from his legacy, which was centered around living. He treated his family, friends, and companions well. So, we ought to celebrate his legacy instead of mourning.”

Three people have been indicted on murder charges for the shooting deaths Semaj Floyd and 20-year-old Omarion Whitfield.