Community Demands Justice After Devoted Mother Fatally Shot in Columbia Tragedy

COLUMBIA, S.C. — A Heartbreaking Loss

Columbia was rocked by tragedy last Thursday when a devoted mother and wife, Antionette Colón, lost her life in a shooting on Harbison Boulevard. The 40-year-old was just doing her job at a local Bojangles when the unthinkable happened. Now, her family is appealing to the community, desperate for answers and justice for their beloved Antionette.

A Life Full of Love

Antionette’s family describes her as a woman with a “heart of gold.” She was a mother to nine children and was known for her kindness and willingness to help anyone in need. Her sisters, Traci Marie Colón and Denise Colón, spoke with deep emotion about how Antionette always opened her home and her heart to those who were struggling, even if it meant she had to go without herself.

Traci shared, “Even when they struggled, went without, didn’t have anything, her doors, her kitchen was always open to those in need.” Antionette was more than a mother; she was a grandmother, an aunt, and a friend to many. The loss of such a vibrant spirit has created a void that is impossible to fill.

Remembering the Tragic Day

On that fateful Thursday morning, Columbia police arrived at the Bojangles to find Antionette critically injured. They believe she was an innocent bystander in a shooting that has left the community reeling. Despite being rushed to the hospital, she succumbed to her injuries the next day. Now, police are actively searching for the suspect, identified as Ja-Quivian Kennerly, aged 23.

A Call for Justice

Antionette’s family isn’t sitting in silence; they’re using their voices to demand justice. Traci declared, “This man didn’t just ruin his own life. He shattered our lives. There’s no coming back from this.” The family is making a heartfelt appeal to anyone who might have information about the whereabouts of Kennerly. They believe that finding him is crucial before they can lay Antionette to rest.

Traci continued, “We need everybody coming forward, because what if it was your sister? What if it was your mom? What if it was your wife?” Her words resonated deeply; they aren’t just looking for a suspect; they are asking for compassion and empathy from the community. Antionette was a strong pillar in her family and to many in the community—she deserves justice.

Community Support

The Columbia Police Department is urging anyone with any information on Kennerly’s possible location to step forward. If you have tips or leads, you can contact the police directly or submit information anonymously through Crime Stoppers by calling 1-888-CRIME-SC. This is a crucial time for the community to unite and protect each other.

Final Thoughts

The devastation felt by Antionette Colón’s family is palpable, and the call for justice underscores the urgent need for community support during such difficult times. As the search for Ja-Quivian Kennerly continues, may we all hold Antionette’s family in our thoughts, and remember the impact that one person’s life can have on so many. Together, let’s ensure that justice is not just a hope but a reality.