In an interview with the Los Angeles Times, civil rights leader Andrew Young said Ennis Cosby “was a kid becoming a man, with everything in the world going for him … I saw in him hope for all youth.” Unfortunately, Ennis’ life was cut short by what was later described as a botched robbery attempt.

In the early morning hours of January 16, 1997, Ennis was driving his mother’s Mercedes SL Convertible along Interstate 405. As he traveled through the Sepulveda Pass, he got a flat tire and pulled over to the side of the road. According to OK Magazine, Ennis called his girlfriend, Stephanie Crane, and asked her to meet him where his car broke down.

As reported by OK Magazine, Stephanie Crane attempted to dissuade Ennis Cosby from changing his own tire, as she was concerned for his safety. According to reports, she asked Cosby to call a tow truck for assistance. However, Cosby was intent on changing the tire himself.

When Crane arrived, she parked behind Cosby while he worked on changing his tire. Shortly after she arrived, a man approached Crane’s vehicle and threatened physical harm if she did not open her door.

OK Magazine reports Crane immediately began driving away to avoid a confrontation. However, as she pulled away, she was stunned to hear a gunshot. When she turned around and drove back to the scene, Crown found Cosby dead with a bullet wound to the head.