Arlington, Texas – The community of Lamar High School in Arlington, Texas continues to mourn the loss of student Ja’Shawn Poirier, a year after his tragic death on campus. Poirier was fatally shot just weeks before his 17th birthday, sparking a wave of grief among his loved ones and classmates. This week, on the anniversary of his passing, family, friends, and educators gathered at the high school to pay tribute to his memory.
Despite the passage of time, Poirier’s mother, Rashone Jacob, remains deeply affected by the loss of her son. Reflecting on the past year, Jacob expressed her ongoing struggle to come to terms with the tragic events that took her son’s life. The community came together to honor Poirier’s legacy, underscoring the impact of his untimely death on those who knew him best.
The fatal incident took place on March 20, 2023, as Poirier stood outside Lamar High School with his peers. A fellow student approached with a shotgun, resulting in Poirier being fatally wounded. The devastating loss of Poirier has left a lasting mark on those who knew him, with fond memories of him as a vibrant and beloved member of the community.
In a poignant tribute to Poirier, his loved ones and classmates released balloons in his favorite color, green, uttering the words “Forever sixteen” in unison. The community has sought to turn tragedy into something positive, with a plaque now displayed inside the school in remembrance of Poirier. Additionally, a scholarship has been established in his honor, symbolizing the enduring impact he had on those around him.
Jacob expressed gratitude for the ongoing support and remembrance of her son, emphasizing the importance of keeping his memory alive. As she grapples with the reality of not being able to witness her son’s milestones like prom and graduation, she implores others to never forget the date of his passing, March 20, 2023.
Following the tragic event, the juvenile shooter responsible for Poirier’s death was sentenced to 40 years in prison. Detectives investigating the case determined that there was no prior connection between Poirier and the shooter. A hearing is scheduled for the shooter’s 19th birthday to determine the next steps in his legal process, whether to continue serving his sentence in prison or to potentially be granted probation. The aftermath of Poirier’s death continues to reverberate throughout the community, serving as a solemn reminder of the preciousness of life and the enduring impact of tragic events on those left behind.