A Tragic Loss: Teen Killed While Doing Yard Work
The family of 17-year-old Daricco Weir is reeling from the sudden and tragic loss of their beloved son, brother, and friend. According to the family, Weir was doing what he loved—cleaning gutters—when he was shot and killed. His cousin, Danaijah Hairston, expressed the deep confusion and heartbreak that the family is experiencing.
“He was cleaning gutters and was killed, so it’s really no way to really make that make sense at all,” Hairston said. She described Weir as someone who loved to laugh and was deeply connected to his family. He was working on a home on Villa Way, just outside the city limits of Jonesboro, when the incident occurred. According to Clayton County Police, the teen was shot in the head during the event.
The tragedy has left the community in shock. Neighbors who knew Weir spoke highly of him, particularly for his dedication to yard work. Hairston shared that Weir was working on the home with two other neighborhood kids on Saturday night. “He just wanted to help, so if he could get another kid to help him, give them a couple of dollars, you know, just to have them do something productive and make money the hardworking way,” she explained.
Weir was a rising senior at Riverdale High School and had big dreams beyond his neighborhood. His passion for lawn work was matched only by his love for music. His family hopes to see him expand his business and pursue his musical aspirations. However, those dreams were abruptly taken from him.
“We’re just trying to, you know, depend on each other and make it through,” Hairston said, describing the emotional struggle her family is facing. The grief is compounded by the lack of answers. The family is desperate for any information that could lead to justice.
“If you’ve seen something, please say something, send something, call the police, you know, call Clayton County, just you know, say something to help us find whoever did this,” Hairston urged.
The neighbor whose house was the site of the shooting was not present when 11Alive News visited. According to Hairston, the situation unfolded so quickly that the neighbor is unsure of what exactly happened.
Clayton County Police have not released any updates regarding suspects or motives as of Monday evening. They confirmed that the investigation is still ongoing, and they are urging anyone with information to come forward.
Community Response and Calls for Justice
The incident has sparked a wave of concern and support within the community. Many neighbors remember Weir as a hardworking and kind individual who contributed positively to the area. His death has left a void that will be difficult to fill.
Local residents are calling for increased safety measures and greater awareness of potential threats. Some have expressed frustration over the lack of progress in the case, while others are stepping up to offer assistance to the Weir family.
The family is also seeking closure and justice for their son. They believe that the truth will eventually come out, but for now, they are focused on supporting one another and honoring Daricco’s memory.
As the investigation continues, the community remains united in its hope for answers and a resolution. The tragedy serves as a reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of coming together in times of loss.
