My 13-year-old son, King Douglas, was shot and killed by a 12-year-old on April 17, 2021. King was a vibrant, loving and joyful soul whose life was tragically cut short by gun violence. His laughter and energy were infectious, and he had a way of lighting up every room he entered. He often said, “Mommy, I’m famous,” and in many ways, he truly was to those who knew and loved him. King’s memory lives on through the love and support of our community and the legacy he left behind.
In his honor, a street was named “King Douglas Way” in the Ritchie Station Complex in Capitol Heights, Maryland, where loved ones often visit and take pictures. Additionally, we established the “For King We Stand Foundation,” a non-profit organization dedicated to mentoring at-risk youth and providing support groups for parents who have lost their children to gun violence. Losing King has profoundly changed my life, fueling my dedication to advocating for at-risk youth and working towards preventing such tragedies. His story is a reminder of the preciousness of life and the urgent need for change.