Community Corner
GoFundMe Created For 16-Year-Old Fatally Shot Outside Columbia Mall
A GoFundMe has been set up in honor of 16-year-old Michael Jerome Robertson III to help his family with memorial services.
HOWARD COUNTY, MD — A GoFundMe has been established for 16-year-old Michael Jerome Robertson III who was fatally shot outside the Mall in Columbia last month.
Shortly before 6 p.m. Feb. 22, Howard County police officers were called to a parking lot and bus area outside Lidl at the Mall in Columbia in the 10300 block of Little Patuxent Parkway, where they found Robertson of Columbia, who was pronounced dead at the scene, according to police. Blake McCray, 15, of Columbia, was taken to the University of Maryland Shock Trauma Center, but he died Thursday night. Authorities have identified the suspect as 18-year-old Emmetson Zeah, who is now facing murder charges.
The GoFundMe shared that Robertson was "raised with love and devotion by his mother, Wanda Renea Vereen, who instilled in him the values of perseverance, kindness and strength."
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A student at Wilde Lake High School, Robertson focused on playing football and excelling in the classroom.
"His talent on the field was matched only by his heart off of it—always lifting up those around him with encouragement, laughter, and unwavering friendship," the GoFundMe stated. "To know him was to love him and his presence brought joy, warmth and inspiration to all who had the privilege of crossing his path."
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"Michael’s impact on his family, friends and teammates was immeasurable. His legacy will live on through the countless lives he touched with his kindness and the love he so freely gave. Though he has left this world too soon, his spirit remains with us. His memory will be cherished forever, and his light will continue to shine in the hearts of those who knew and loved him," the GoFundMe stated.
As of March 3, the GoFundMe has generated $10,489 toward the $50,000 goal.
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