Mom of teen killed at Jacksonville Landing says her son was an honor student

The mother of a murdered teen is talking to Action News Jax a day after her son was shot at The Jacksonville Landing in downtown Jacksonville.

Tuesday, the family held a vigil to honor 16-year old Kamoi Petersen in the same place he was killed.

"He's never been in a gang. He's not affiliated with a gang," said Monifa Petersen, Kamoi's mom.

Strong words from Monifa Petersen, Tuesday night, as she wants to set the record straight. Petersen, along with her family, stood on the Jacksonville Landing steps, the same steps where her son was shot and killed Monday in broad daylight.

Tuesday night, his family is grieving, releasing balloons in his honor.

“He was going to graduate this year, he has a birthday in nine days, turning 17,” said Petersen.

Police say this shooting may be tied to the shooting that happened at the Art Walk in downtown Jacksonville nearly two weeks ago, but Petersen said she doesn’t understand why and how they came up with that connection.

“Whatever y'all putting out about my son about him being at the Art Walk, he was home with me. He was home with me,” said Petersen.

Police don’t have all of the answers on who shot Kamoi. His mother said she’s focused and determined to get to the bottom of what she calls another pointless murder in Jacksonville.

“My son’s name is not going to go in vain. I’m not going to stop, until I receive justice for Kamoi. Whoever did this, they know who they are, and I’m sure they can’t sleep peaceful at night, because I can’t and I’m not going to and they’re not either,” said Petersen.

Jacklyn Wynn couldn't believe it when she got the call that her nephew had been shot.

“When I answered it, and I was told what happened, I couldn’t believe Kamoi was the one that got shot. I was devastated,” said Wynn. “No more Kamoi. No more Kamoi. No more Kamoi. He’s gone and it’s hard.”

The family gave Action News Jax video of Kamoi dancing at the Landing, the day before he was shot. Wynn said that’s how she remembers her nephew.

“He was in my wedding, 10 years ago. He rang the bell, (saying) 'The bride is coming, the bride is coming,' with a big smile on his face,” said Wynn.

His mother said he was an honor roll student and has been since sixth grade.

Cox Media Group