Family of teen shot and killed in Ahwatukee praying for answers during candlelight vigil

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

On Friday, a vigil was held for 17-year-old Malachi Henningham, a promising young basketball player who was killed in the shooting, and there are still no answers about who did it.

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

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

His 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 was full of potential that was tapped too soon.

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

They found Malachi in a bullet-riddled car that had crashed into the tree. He was shot at least once and unfortunately died instantly.

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

Family and friends say the most devastating part of all this is not knowing who did this and why they would do something like this.

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

“It means everything and it just shows me that my son was loved and it just shows me that the community feels my pain and they grieve with me and I can feel the support and that's what I need in this moment,” Rose said.

“If you see something, if you hear something, you know, it might not mean anything to you, but it could have significant significance to the case.” Please contact us and tell us what you know,” she said.

The family has a GoFundMe for funeral arrangements.

Phoenix police say they have not made any 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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