Dozens hold vigil for Riley High School student athlete

Dozens of family and friends gathered during a vigil held outside of Riley High School Thursday evening for a South Bend student who was shot and killed while visiting in Indy over the Fourth of July holiday.

15-year-old Abdul Cross was visiting family members in Indianapolis with his mom when police say a shooting happened where he was. According to Indianapolis Metro Homicide, the soon-to-be sophomore was with his older brother in the early morning of July 4th visiting others in an apartment complex in the 600 block of Beachway Drive in Indianapolis. That’s when police say a conflict arose around 1:30 a.m. and Cross was shot along with one other person. Police say that other person survived, however Cross was listed in critical condition until Wednesday, July 12th when he died from his injuries.

The vigil was held outside of Riley High School where Cross spent much of his time on the field. He also played for Marshall Intermediate where two of his other siblings attend. Many family members and friends expressed their condolences to the family before and after the vigil including prayers and memories of Cross. Family members spoke of his character including his mother who was with him in the hospital in Indianapolis and a friend and former teammate who spent much time with him on the sidelines during high school football games.

“On the football field, he just always encouraged you to do your best and when like you were down he was just that person to be there to talk to whenever you know. It’s sad that I’m losing a friend that, you know, I had on the football field and he’s in a better place now so…” said Derrick Wesley, a friend and former teammate of Abdul Cross.

Police say they have several persons of interest at this time. The family says they will continue showing and welcoming any support for Cross. To donate to the family's memorial fund, click here.