Family of teenager shot dead in Ahwatukee prays for answers at candlelight vigil

GILBERT, AZ (AZFamily) – Phoenix police are searching for the person who shot and killed a teenager and injured another near a shopping center in Ahwatukee.

A vigil was held Friday for 17-year-old Malachi Henningham, a promising young basketball player who was killed in the shooting. There is still no answer to the question of who did it.

His family says the teenager had many identities. He was known as a son, friend and athlete. But his most important identity was a new one: being a father.

His two-month-old son Messiah attended the vigil, which was held at the Inspire Court basketball court near Arizona Avenue and Guadalupe Road in Gilbert.

Teammates, coaches and friends say he was always dedicated and respected for his positive attitude and sportsmanship.

His mother, Leisa Rose, says he loved being a father and working hard, and he had a lot of potential that was taken from him far too early.

Shortly before midnight on May 28, Phoenix police were called to a shooting near 48th Street and Warner Road.

They found Malachi in a car riddled with bullet holes that had crashed into the tree. He had been shot at least once and sadly died at the scene.

Police also found another teenager who had been shot and taken to the hospital. Arizona’s family contacted police but was not informed of the second victim’s condition.

Family and friends say the worst part is that they don’t know who did it or why they did it.

However, Rose is grateful for the large number of people who came to honor Malachi.

“It means everything to me and shows me that my son was loved. And it shows me that the community feels my pain and grieves with me. I feel the support and that is what I need at this time,” Rose said.

“If you see or hear something, it may mean nothing to you, but it could be of great importance to the case. Please come forward and tell us what you know,” she said.

The family has started a GoFundMe campaign to organize the funeral.

Phoenix police say they have made no arrests in this case. If you know anything, you can call Silent Witness at 480-WITNESS or 480-TESTIGO for Spanish speakers. Callers can remain anonymous.

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