Da'Jon Anthony Hayes-Burr, a 15-year-old Kentucky teen who was honored earlier this year for defending a 12-year-old girl from sexual harassment, was fatally shot in Louisville on Saturday night. Police have arrested a 14-year-old suspect on a murder charge.
Incident and Arrest
The shooting occurred in Louisville's Shawnee neighborhood. Hayes-Burr was pronounced dead at a hospital. The suspect, whose name has not been released due to age, was booked on a murder count. Police have not disclosed a motive and say the investigation is ongoing.
Heroic Act in April
In April, Hayes-Burr intervened when a 45-year-old man, Vasilis Sakellardis, made a sexual comment to a 12-year-old girl. The girl's mother, Kristyn Stasel, screamed for help, and Hayes-Burr and other boys confronted Sakellardis. During the altercation, Sakellardis stabbed Hayes-Burr before being arrested. Hayes-Burr was hospitalized but later released.
Recognition and Tributes
Hayes-Burr received a proclamation from the Louisville city council for his bravery. Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear sent a letter and a challenge coin in May. After his death, Beshear said, "Da'Jon was a child of God whose life was taken far too soon, and his bravery and selflessness will leave a lasting impact." Louisville council member Crystal Bast lamented, "We have babies out here killing babies. Something has to change."
Impact and Statistics
Since 2020, firearms have been the leading cause of death for children and adolescents in the US aged 1-19. A statement from Hayes-Burr's family called his death "tragic and senseless" and urged the public to "honor Da'Jon's memory by choosing kindness, standing up for others, and helping us put an end to the senseless violence."
