‘Shot dead for no reason’: Grandmother of 13-year-old shot and killed questions motive

BOSTON — The grandmother of a 13-year-old boy who was shot and killed during a morning walk can’t comprehend why anyone would take his life.

Tyler Lawrence, who just turned 13 on December 3rd, was shot and killed just a few blocks from his grandparent’s house in Mattapan on Sunday morning.

The middle schooler was spending the weekend there as he often did.

Carol Lawrence said the unknown motive is adding to the agony of losing her grandson at such a young age.

“Imagine your child on the ground… shot dead for no reason,” said the grief-stricken grandmother.  “I know this person has to be void of feelings to take a human being’s life, especially a child.”

Investigators previously stated that Lawrence was targeted. His family told Boston 25 News they feel that insinuates he was doing something wrong.

They said he consciously stayed away from trouble and wasn’t a child who was familiar with the “street life”.

“I wanted a good life for him so we set good examples for him. My husband goes to work every day. His mother worked every day,” explained Carol Lawrence. “He was innocent. He didn’t think anything like that would happen to him.”

Loved ones said Lawrence was passionate about playing basketball and brought a smile wherever he went.

He attended Coakley Middle School in Norwood where emotional support is now being offered to students and staff.

“I can’t imagine why anyone [would do this]. There’s evil in the world. He’s 13 years old,” said great-aunt Patricia Bass. “There’s no amount of payment for taking someone’s life.”

Lawrence was walking in area of Babson and Fremont Streets around 11:30 a.m. Sunday morning when he was shot multiple times.

Boston Police have not said if homicide detectives are any closer to catching the suspect or suspects responsible.

This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available.

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