PHOTO GALLERY: Vigil held for slain Jacksonville girl
The community gathered for a vigil for the 7-year-old shot and killed Saturday in Jacksonville Heights.
On Tuesday night, family, friends, community members who didn’t even know Heidy Rivas-Villanueva and Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office detectives were all there for her.
In press conference Tuesday officials said they had two suspects in Heidy's death in custody.
At least 150 people gathered for the vigil as JSO hunted for a third shooting suspect, Abrion Price.
“Our police are doing an incredible job!” said Michael Liles of the Justice Coalition. “Two out of three [suspects]! But one remains!”
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The heartbroken parents of the 7-year-old wore white shirts bearing her name and picture, calling for justice.
Bryan Rivas,10, is Heidy’s cousin. His parents gave Action News Jax permission to speak with him.
“Why did they [shoot] my cousin in the head, she’s innocent!” Bryan said. “That’s what I was thinking. That’s a 7-year-old girl!”
Bryan had a message he wants this whole community to hear.
“I want everyone in the world to be good,” Rivas said. “Don’t do violence anymore, because they’re innocent children!”
INTERVIEW: Father of slain 7-year-old demands justice for daughter
RELATED STORY: Family grateful to JSO for hard work, protection
Villanueva's family is trying to raise money so they'll be able to have a funeral for her in her native country of Honduras: https://www.gofundme.com/5ycvzyg
Cox Media Group
