The grieving mother of a Virginia teen gunned down just two days before his high school graduation said she "was robbed" of her son's life as police continue to hunt for his killer.
Tyshawn White, 18, was shot to death at his Richmond, Virginia, home May 22, according to police. He was pronounced dead on the scene – less than 48 hours before he was set to walk the stage to receive his diploma from Meadowbrook High School.
"For me to be the one to find my baby is something that won't ever leave my mind." Tyshawn's mother, Toni Atkins, told WRIC-TV during a vigil for the teen Saturday. "Everyday hurts. My life will never be the same. I feel like I was robbed."
"People say they cry every day, and I never knew... how could somebody cry every day?" questioned Atkins. "Until you're that person that cries every day."
A GoFundMe campaign launched to offset burial costs described Tyshawn as a "truly kind soul" whose sights were set on college in the fall.
"Our family was supposed to be celebrating his graduation accomplishment but instead we're planning his funeral," the fundraiser description read.
"There was a home invasion and his life was taken in the process. Tyshawn's presence was truly one of a kind. He was a kind, loving, family-oriented sweetheart. He stayed to himself and his family. This was truly devastating as he lost his life in his own home."
No arrests have been made.
