Young father and a paralyzed gun violence survivor among victims of Gray’s Ferry shooting, according to family reports.
In a tragic incident on Monday morning, Azir Harris, a 24-year-old gun violence advocate who was previously paralyzed in a shooting, lost his life in South Philadelphia during a block party. Police reports indicate that the shooting took place shortly before 1 a.m., resulting in the firing of over 100 bullets as attendees gathered for a cookout in the 1500 block of South Etting Street. Harris was among those present, seated in his wheelchair, when he was struck multiple times in the back.
Emergency responders rushed Harris to a local hospital; however, he was pronounced dead shortly after 2:15 a.m. His wheelchair has since become a poignant symbol of the scene, left on the street amid a scattering of bullet casings and evidence markers.
Azir Harris’s tragic fate deeply affected his family, with his father, Troy Harris, confirming the heartbreaking news. The entire family is grappling with the loss, as the mother of Harris’s 1-year-old son was also injured in the shooting. Raised in the Wilson Park Housing Projects of South Philadelphia, Azir was the youngest of six children and was remembered by his father as a beacon of light in their household.
Harris’s journey with gun violence began at 17 when he was shot five times during an attempt to grab food with friends, leading to his paralysis. Despite the devastating impact of his injuries, he remained resilient, determined to be an active father to his son, Aspen. His commitment to fatherhood was unwavering, as he navigated life in a wheelchair while striving to provide for his child.
His father noted the enduring connections Azir fostered throughout his recovery journey. He was involved in a support group for gun violence survivors and worked tirelessly to redefine his identity beyond his physical limitations. Troy Harris recalled a sense of optimism in his youngest son, who sought to uplift others and spread positivity in spite of his challenges.
The painful aftermath of this incident resonated deeply, as family members and friends reached out to one another in grief. Hannah Bookbinder, a community member who had supported Harris during his recovery, expressed the profound sense of loss felt by those who knew him. The unexpected tragedy has left a community reeling, questioning how such violence continues to plague neighborhoods.
As the family mourns the untimely loss of Azir Harris, they reflect on the fleeting moments they had together. Troy Harris shared the memories that he will cherish forever, emphasizing the positive impact his son had on those around him.
The grief-stricken family acknowledges that their lives will never be the same again. The loss of Azir has left an indelible mark on everyone who knew him, and they now seek solace and support from one another in their time of mourning.
The tragic events on that fateful night underscore the pervasive issue of gun violence in communities, serving as a stark reminder of the urgent need for change and advocacy in the face of such senseless acts.
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