Columbia, S.C. Family Seeks Answers After Tragic Loss
The heart of Columbia is heavy today as the family of 22-year-old Xavier Jackson continues to search for answers following the shocking news of his death. Found on the 3400 block of Bluff Road, the circumstances surrounding his passing remain unclear, leaving his loved ones grappling with a myriad of emotions.
Aunt’s Anguish
Xavier’s aunt, Lajuanda Ravenell, shared her raw feelings during this heart-wrenching time. “I can’t even describe what I am feeling in that situation,” she expressed, her voice trembling with grief and anger. “I don’t know how I would react if I saw the person responsible, but I know I want to be able to look them in the face and ask, ‘Why?’”
Her instincts kicked in when she didn’t hear back from Jackson on Monday night after her shift. “After we all kept calling and got no response, we all had a feeling it was him,” she recalled. “He always responds to our calls.” This unease quickly turned into devastation when the news came that he was gone.
Shocked Loved Ones
As if the pain wasn’t enough, his girlfriend tragically discovered his body on the road without even realizing at first who it was. The family, already heartbroken, was further disturbed by this revelation.
Many within Jackson’s family, including his young nephew, Kalyrick White, cherished the wonderful memories shared with him. “My favorite memory is doing fireworks with him and going to church. He also knew I liked bugs and would help me find them—he even caught a praying mantis for me once!” Kalyrick delightedly reminisced, bubbling with fondness even amid the sorrow.
A Bright Light
Jackson’s family portrayed him as a true jokester, someone who always had a way of making everyone smile. “His style of clothing was so unique; he was the only person I’ve seen who would cut and slit the bottoms of jeans—even for school!” Ravenell recalled, breaking into a small smile at the thought.
His cousin, Koneisha White, shared her heartbreak over this loss, remembering their last conversation with a mixture of nostalgia and sorrow. “It’s crazy because the last time I saw him, he said … we’re all going to be on T.V. together. I didn’t think it would be like this,” she sighed. “I miss him.”
Questions Remain
Despite the outpouring of love and support from family and friends, the unanswered questions still loom large. Columbia Police have not yet revealed what they suspect led to Jackson’s untimely death, and the case remains under investigation. This uncertainty only adds to the grief experienced by those who loved him.
How to Help
In hopes of honoring Jackson’s memory while navigating this difficult time, the family has set up a fundraising page for anyone who wishes to support them. Every little contribution can help soothe some of the burdens felt during this painful period.
A Legacy Lives On
Though the family deals with their indescribable pain, they hold tightly onto the memories of Jackson, who will always shine brightly in their hearts. For them, he was more than just a nephew, cousin, and friend; he was a vibrant spirit filled with dreams and laughter that will never be forgotten.
As Columbia prepares to mourn, the community reflects on the importance of supporting one another through loss and embracing the beautiful memories left behind.
