Forever 16: Please help us through these hard times

Peter Hyman Jr (known as PJ) was taken from us Saturday, September 14th, 2024, due to an act of senseless gun violence at Citrus Park Mall. He was only 16 years old. He was a good kid, honor student at Jefferson High School, member of Greater Mount Carmel Church, and a beloved son, brother, grandchild, and friend. Those who know him know he was funny, sweet, goofy, and loved to dance, play video games, and basketball. He loved his family and friends and made friends with anyone without judgment.

Update:

It is with a heavy heart that I share an update on the tragic loss of my son, 16-year-old Peter Hyman Jr., who was fatally shot outside the Citrus Park Town Center Mall in Tampa, Florida. The suspect, 15-year-old Samuel Oquendo, has been arrested and is facing charges, including second-degree murder. He will be tried as an adult for this devastating crime.

I want to thank each and every one of you for your overwhelming generosity and support. Because of your kindness, I have reached my initial fundraising goal. However, I am now increasing the fundraising goal due to additional unforeseen circumstances. I have exhausted all of my paid time off at work and will need to take more time off to attend court dates and focus on grief counseling for myself and my daughters. This is a very hard time for us as my girls and I are facing something we never have before. Everyday we take it one day at a time. Unfortunately, my insurance only covers a limited number of counseling sessions, and we will need further support to continue the healing process.

Your continued support is greatly appreciated during this incredibly difficult time. Thank you from the bottom of my heart for standing by us as we navigate through this.