Apr 21, 2008 8:18 am US/Eastern
Community Holds Prayer Vigil For 12-Year-Old
PITTSBURGH (KDKA) ―
As police continue to look for the person who fired shots that hit and killed a 12-year-old boy Friday night in Wilkinsburg, the community came together to remember him at a vigil.
Sunday afternoon's prayer vigil, held at the scene of the shooting along Wood Street, was organized by the Black Women's Empowerment Institute.
On Friday evening, police say Kholen Germany, 12, was shot while standing outside the 'From Head To Toe' shop.
Investigators say they believe someone standing across the street fired the shots that struck Germany in the shoulder.
The boy was taken to the hospital, but later died from his injuries.
The community and the family said that they would like to see peace come to the area and also for a quick resolution to the case.
"I want someone with information to come forward. He was only 12, innocent, didn't bother anybody," said Orissa Bey, Germany's mother. "He wasn't your typical 12-year-old. Just turn yourself in."
"If we don't say anything about these deaths in our communities, then that is the same as saying we condone these murders and these shootings and these deaths," said Lucille Prater-Holliday, of the Black Women's Empowerment Institute. "We have got to stop that. The leadership has to step forward and be accountable for what goes on in their community."
Today, counselors will be on-hand at Germany's school to help students cope with his death.
Police are asking anyone who may have information on the shooting to contact Allegheny County Police.
Stay with KDKA for the latest details.
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