BRADENTON, Fla. — The family of 15-year-old Kayvon Dunbar held a vigil Friday evening to honor the teen and plead for answers into his death.
“He was a sweet and lively boy who showed great respect,” recalled Jessica Lilly, Dunbar’s mother. “Regardless of what others say, a mother’s intuition never fails. Someone out there has answers.”
According to Bradenton Police, officers were called to the 400 Block of 11th Avenue East at approximately 11:28 p.m. Monday evening.
When officer arrived on scene, they found Dunbar outside of his home with a gunshot wound where they rendered first aid.
Dunbar succumbed to his injuries at the hospital early Tuesday morning.
Dunbar’s uncle, Johnny Lilly echoed the call for the community’s assistance at the vigil.
“If you have information, speak up, so the person responsible can be held accountable. My nephew didn’t deserve this fate, and the perpetrator shouldn’t remain free,” she emphasized.
Todd Mooney, Kayvon’s godfather, encouraged both family and community members to cherish positive memories. “I understand it’s a painful time, but let’s hold onto the happy times we shared with Kayvon,” he stated.
Bradenton Police Department public information officer Meredith Censullo said investigators have gathered extensive information.
“We’ve spoken with numerous individuals and collected a substantial amount of video and other data,” mentioned Censullo. “Although we haven’t identified a suspect or made an arrest yet, we’re progressing towards that goal.”
Censullo recognized that fears over revealing one’s identity might deter some from coming forward, reiterating that crime stoppers allows for complete anonymity.
“This approach ensures your identity remains confidential,” Censullo assured. “Share the information you have, and we’ll diligently pursue it.”
“Regardless if they find him, it’s never going to take this pain away. It’s never going to bring my son back. But at least give me that and some closure to know that the person who did this isn’t getting away with it because my son didn’t deserve that,”
Lilly has created a GoFundMe to support Dunbar’s funeral expenses which can be found here.
Dunbar’s funeral is set for Sept. 13.
Anyone with information into this investigation is asked to contact Crime Stoppers at manateecrimestoppers.com or 866-634-8477. A $3,000 reward for information is offered in this case. Tips can be made anonymously.
