Mother speaks out about death of her 15-year-old son in shooting in Muscle Shoals

MUSCLE SHOALS, Alabama (WHNT) – According to Muscle Shoals Police, officers found 15-year-old Demarion Richardson shot to death at the Red Roof early Sunday morning.

The circumstances of the shooting were not disclosed to the public.

Richardson’s mother, Donshay Beckwith, says she is deeply saddened that her child’s life ended so early.

“That was my baby. He didn’t get to go to prom. He didn’t get to graduate,” she said. “It was taken from him.”

Beckwith says her son had big dreams.

“He played basketball. He loves sports and even tried baseball,” she said. “He wanted to play football and become a professional.”

Richardson was a rising sophomore at Deshler High School in Tuscumbia.

The school issued a statement Monday morning saying it was deeply saddened by the loss.

The administration also acknowledged that Richardson was well known in his community and among students.

“I’m trying to find out who didn’t know him,” Beckwith said. “I mean, he was a peaceful person. He was loving. He was caring and he would give his all. He has a good heart.”

As she tries to come to terms with the loss of her son, Beckwith says there is one thing she wants for sure.

“Justice,” she said. “I want justice for my child.”

A 16-year-old has been arrested in connection with Richardson’s death. Muscle Shoals police have officially turned the case over to juvenile authorities.

Nevertheless, Beckwith urges anyone with further information to come forward and speak to investigators.