Vigil held for Mayport murder victim

More than 100 family, friends gather for vigil in Harold Long's memory

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – A grieving family stood together Saturday as they honored their loved one.

Harold "Breion" Long, 19, was killed in a drive-by shooting in a Mayport neighborhood on July 14.

Police said Long was standing near the road on Cypress Landing Drive when a white car pulled up and several shots were fired. Long then ran to a backyard where he collapsed and died.

Police are still looking for the person responsible.

More than 100 family members and friends gathered Saturday for a candlelight vigil at Donner Park in Atlantic Beach in Long's memory.

"The violence and everything that's going on, it's just ridiculous," said Tony Curry, Long's uncle. "I don't know how, I just want to come together to try to put a stop to it."

Curry said he was at a loss for words when he heard about the violent death of his nephew.

His family acknowledges Long had a lengthy criminal record, but said he had been working to make a change.

RELATED: Family of Mayport murder victim speaks

"He strived, even though he made mistakes, he strived to be better," said Rineka Williams, Long's cousin. "He said all the time, 'Cousin, I'm going to get better. I'm going to do it.' He strived to be a better person."

As Long's loved ones grieve this loss, their hope is to soon have answers.

"I know he's in a better place. I know he's here to protect me now," said Williams. "So that gives me lots of spirit to move forward and get justice for him."

The family tells News4Jax Long will be laid to rest in one week.


About the Authors:

Ashley Harding joined the Channel 4 news team in March 2013. She reports for and anchors The Morning Show.