Topeka, Kansas, held a candle vigil for 17-year-old Victor Carlton, who was killed in an act of gun violence. Carlton is the fourth young person to be killed in the area in the past two weeks. Friends and family remember him as a kind and giving person and are pleading for an end to the violence. Funeral services will be held at Penwell-Gable funeral home.
TOPEKA, Kan. (WIBW) – The city of Topeka is once again grappling with the tragic loss of a young life due to gun violence. On Thursday night, friends and family members gathered at the intersection of 21st and Pennsylvania to hold a candlelight vigil in memory of 17-year-old Victor Carlton, who was killed at that very location.
The vigil aimed to honor Carlton’s life and remember him as a vibrant and caring individual. Lila Matchett, a close friend of Victor’s mother, described him as a fun-loving kid who had the ability to light up any room he walked into. She emphasized his kind-hearted nature and his willingness to help anyone in need.
This gathering marked the fourth candlelight vigil held in the past two weeks for young victims of gun violence in Topeka. Matchett expressed her shock and disbelief, stating that no one expected Victor to be the first of the three teenagers to lose their life. She also highlighted the impact these tragic deaths have had on the entire community, extending beyond just those who were close to the victims.
According to Victor’s friend, Landen Osborne, Victor was always there for others, even at unconventional hours. He emphasized that Victor’s kindness extended to anyone, regardless of their relationship with him. Osborne expressed his sadness and frustration over the fact that Victor was taken away from them too soon.
Family members of the victims are now pleading for an end to the violence that claimed their loved ones’ lives. They are urging authorities and community leaders to provide safe spaces for young people, where they can gather and socialize, away from the dangers of the streets. Matchett emphasized the importance of offering alternatives to the allure of a dangerous lifestyle.
Osborne joined the plea, urging for more action to be taken to prevent further loss of lives. He emphasized that the efforts to combat violence should not be limited to Victor’s case but should extend to every family affected by such tragedies.
Funeral services for Victor Carlton are expected to be held at Penwell-Gable funeral home. As the Topeka community mourns this devastating loss, it is crucial for society to come together to address the root causes of gun violence and work towards creating a safer environment for all..