Candlelight Vigil for Slain Teen

NASSAU, BAHAMAS – Nearly a week after a teen was fatally shot at a Kemp Road area park, a candlelight vigil, and memorial service was held for the junior high school student. Though it got off to a rainy start, the wet weather could not extinguish the flames of support from the community.

Our Jasmin Brown was there.

The park where 13-year-old Quinton Mckenzie was gunned down last Friday was transformed by scores of candles being held by family, friends and members of his community who attended the vigil that was held in his honor.

The L. W. Young Junior High School student, who loved baseball and video games was shot on a park in the Kemp Road area just before 8pm last Friday.

His mother Kissie Brown-Pratt and father Quincy Mckenzie attended the service.

Quincy says returning to the scene where his son was shot was a strangely healing experience.

While there were somber moments like when the family created a circle of candles on the spot where Quinton was shot, much of the vigil was spent reflecting on Quinton’s short but impactful life.

Everyone from his best friend to his school principal shared fond memories.

Also attending the service was Freetown Member of Parliament and National Security Minister Wayne Munroe, who says the murder hit home as Quinton’s mother has been a loyal supporter that has aided his political career.