Tragic Shooting Leaves Alabama Community Mourning
The community of Sylacauga, Alabama, is reeling after the tragic loss of 17-year-old D’Marcus Riggins, who was shot and later died in the hospital. The incident occurred late on August 8, shortly after D’Marcus had finished basketball practice.
According to the Sylacauga Police Department, officers arrived at the scene after reports of gunfire. They found D’Marcus and another individual with gunshot wounds. While the other person sustained non-life-threatening injuries, police performed CPR on D’Marcus, but he unfortunately did not survive.
D’Marcus was just starting his senior year at B.B. Comer Memorial High School and had been excited to play basketball with friends earlier that day. His mother, Tykeshia Riggins, shared a heartbreaking account of their last conversation, saying she spoke with him about an hour before the shooting. He had called her to ask if he could bring a friend home, but sadly, he was shot shortly after dropping that friend off.
In response to the tragedy, Tykeshia has set up a GoFundMe page to help cover funeral expenses. In a touching message, she described her son as a bright young man full of dreams and love. “I’ll never see my firstborn again… it’s the most horrific feeling ever,” she expressed.
The Talladega County Schools released a statement expressing their deep sadness over D’Marcus’ passing and offered support for students to pray in his memory.
As of now, police have not made any arrests or announced a motive for the shooting. A $1,000 reward has been offered for any information related to the case. Authorities encourage anyone with details to contact Investigations Sgt. Vinson at 256-391-4386 or Central Alabama Crime Stoppers at 1-833-251-7867.
