WILSON, N.C. — The family of a North Carolina 5-year-old who was shot and killed by his neighbor this summer announced plans for a memorial Wednesday morning to honor his life.
A Miracle Field will be added to the J. Burt Gillette Athletic Complex and provide those with special needs and the disabled a chance to play baseball and enjoy other recreational activities. A playground is also part of the project.
WTVD said Cannon’s mother, Bonnie Parker, expressed gratitude for the support shown toward the family after their loss.
”I just want to thank everybody for the support, their love, everything that’s been donated, the messages, been given to us, everything that’s been donated,” said Parker, who was recently married. “It’s being given back to help our community.”
According to WTVD, Wilson attorney Will Farris spoke of the field possibly hosting a children’s bike rodeo as a yearly fundraiser. Farris said Cannon loved to play, making a playground a fitting tribute.
”We’re here because we want people to remember Cannon,” Farris said. “But we also want people to remember that this is a community that is strong together and we want it to stay together and we want to raise money for that field for this field and for this playground.”
Cannon Hinnant was shot in the back of the head while riding his bike in August just days before starting kindergarten. The boy’s longtime neighbor, 25-year-old Darius N. Sessoms, has been charged in his death.
The 5-year-old’s funeral drew crowds of about 100 people to honor and support the family. A GoFundMe account set up for the family has raised more than $800,000.
You can donate to the project here.
Cox Media Group
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