JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – Family and friends of 17–year-old Anthony Byirt have identified him as the person shot and killed in the parking lot of the Plantation Apartments on the Southside late Thursday night.
Police have made no arrests in the slaying but those closest to Byirt hope that a break in the case comes soon, and the person responsible for his death ends up in jail.
Karlendria Wade, Byirt's girlfriend, said the Biscayne High senior had a promising future, with dreams of attending community college then the University of Florida.
Wade said they were together for two years, that were full of loving memories but now it feels like a nightmare.
"I didn't think it was real. I just thought that I'm in a nightmare and he's going to call me as soon as I get home or when I go to sleep but it never happens," Wade said.
Just minutes after her volleyball game, Wade, who is also a senior at the high school, said she called Byirt, but it was the next phone call that would change her life forever.
"Anthony was my best friend and I love him for that. He just always put a smile on my face. And like he accomplished so much. Everyone tells me that I changed him but really he changed me," Wade said.
Wade said that Byirt would have started his senior year at Biscayne High Monday. She said he loved basketball and had dreams of one day majoring in computer science at UF.
"Now I feel like he's still with me and I'm doing all of this for him. I'm going to get our diplomas and all," Wade said.
Wade said she is also trying to be strong for Byirt's family because that is what he would want.
"He had three sisters and one brother who loved him, and a mama who loved him and I'm going to stay strong for them and him," Wade said.
Police said they are looking to see if any surveillance video is available in the area from the time of the shooting and are urging anyone with information to contact Crime Stoppers at 866-845-TIPS. Anyone who provides information leading to an arrest can remain anonymous and could be eligible for a reward.