Nassau County

Vigil to be held for West Nassau High student shot and killed on Monday

By Ryan Nelson, Action News Jax
By Ryan Nelson, Action News Jax

NASSAU COUNTY, Fla. — Action News Jax is learning Nassau County Sheriff Bill Leeper made a personal visit to West Nassau High School on Wednesday.

We told you Monday when WNHS football player Trent Fort, 16, was shot and killed by a fellow student in an off-campus shooting.

Deputies tell us three suspects are in custody, all of whom are students at the school.

The memorial at the school honoring Fort seems to grow larger by the day.

His parents, Thareus Fort and Paige Hall, tell us it’s been a difficult 48 hours.

“It’s been a complete nightmare for me, sleepless nights, continuous crying, tears just run like a waterfall because of the pain that you’re going through for your child,” said Thareus.

“My child should be in school right now,” said Hall. “He shouldn’t be dead right now. And he was only 16. It’s not fair.”

Sheriff Leeper met with the school’s principal today to ensure they have all the security resources they need. Additional deputies will be on campus for the remainder of the week.

Nassau County deputies have three people in custody but have not identified the shooter.

“[Detectives have] been in contact with me,” said Hall. “And they are going to do everything they can to bring justice for this, because this was a senseless crime.”

As they pray for justice, Fort’s parents say the support and love from the town of Callahan brings them strength.

“Everybody out here has just shown us nothing but love and support and we really appreciate it at this time,” Thareus said.

Memorial services

Fort’s family tells us there will be a vigil at West Nassau High School at 6:30 p.m. on Thursday. There will be a viewing on Friday from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the Anchor Church in Callahan.

Fort’s funeral will be held at the First Baptist Church of Callahan on Saturday at 11 a.m.

© 2020 Cox Media Group

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