Sanders was set to graduate from University City High School in December, his mother, Laconia Adams, said. He transferred into the district in February 2016. She said Sanders has a younger brother.

Adams implored her son’s family and friends at the vigil to pursue their dreams.

“You still have a future,” she said. “Follow your dreams. Soar.

“Because it just takes one wrong decision, and things can change in a second.”

She described Gavin as a close friend of Sanders.

“This horrible time in my life was brought onto me by someone who was around me dearly,” she said. “I can never see AJ again,” she said, referring to her son by his popular nickname. “My soul is stripped from me.”

Alvin Sanders Sr. said his son, whom he described as bright and respectful, was never without his signature smile.

“I’m going to miss that smile he had on all the time,” Sanders said. “If you knew AJ you know he had the most beautiful smile.”

“AJ had an impact on everyone he met,” he said, looking over the crowd. “And I see it now. He’s looking down on us right now and he’s glad we’re out here.”