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CHICAGO (WLS) — A teen shot and killed at a Douglass Park pool, allegedly by a lifeguard, will be laid to rest on Wednesday.
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The funeral for Marjay Dotson, 15, was held at Healing Temple Church.
Dotson died after allegedly being shot by Charles Leto on June 26.
“I feel a deep sadness because this should never have occurred. I’ve seen the footage, and he wasn’t doing anything wrong. He didn’t deserve this, he truly didn’t,” shared his friend Keanna Myles.
His family wanted the service to be private after his death was all too public.
“He was a good boy,” father Maurice Dotson said. “I love him and we are going to miss him.”
The 15-year-old was a student at UIC College Prep.
“I have nothing but good things to say,” teacher David Flores said. “Truly a light. He lit up every room.”
Former lifeguard Leto is charged for murder and attempted murder.
14-year-old Jeremy Herred was also shot and remains in the hospital.
Herred’s parents attended today’s service.
“It’s rough a lot of emotions devastating to all,” Jeremy Herred Sr. said.
“Right now, they need support and to feel the love and concern of others. It’s crucial for them to know they’re not facing this situation alone,” stated Reverand Marvin Hunter, the great uncle of Jeremy Herred.
“The anguish this family is enduring is unjustifiable. We don’t expect our kids to face danger at the park, especially not due to government actions. We must strive for improvement,” expressed 28th Ward Alderman Jason Irvin.
The 15 year old had a private burial with his family and friends still stunned by the events of the last two weeks.
Among those who attended the service was the general superintendent and CEO of Chicago Park District.
The spokesperson for the park district told ABC7 they added a permanent security post at the park.
As for Jeremy Herred, his family says he is awake and alert but still on a ventilator.
After the service, his parents returned to the hospital where they have been the last two weeks with their son.
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