INDIANAPOLIS — Julius Parker Jr.'s friends and family gathered Friday at the same spot on Indianapolis' southeast side where he was murdered two weeks ago, not only to honor his life and legacy, but to seek justice.
It was the first time Julius Parker Sr. and Sonie Parker had been back to the scene where their son was murdered.
"It has given us some peace that we can come here and tell the world that we demand justice," Julius Sr. said.
While it is difficult for them, they felt like they needed to be there and invite their son's loved ones and friends to share their grief through a candlelight vigil.
"I have to do it for my boy. I have to stand up for my boy," Sonie said.
Julius Jr. was just 19 years old when he was shot and killed. His body was found inside a parked car on Spring Wind Lane, near South Franklin Road and Interstate 74, on Jan. 26. Investigators believe a suspect fled in another vehicle.
Julius Jr. was a Franklin Central High School graduate and a freshman at Ball State University. His goal was to be a psychiatrist. His parents said he was a talented athlete and musical artist.
"He was such a wonderful kid. Very humble and respectful and never in trouble with the law," Julius Sr. said.
Julius Jr.'s family and friends wrapped their arms around his parents and released balloons in his honor, his parents still feeling the pain of their loss.
"I can't sleep. I'm just, like, 'He's going to walk through the door.' I just want to know whoever did this and why. I don't understand. I'm just pleading for any information or anyone who knows anything to come forward because he might do it to someone else," Sonie said.
"Whoever did this to him, we want that person to be brought to justice," Julius Sr. said.
Until that day comes, and even after, they hope to save another family from feeling the same pain they're feeling.
"Guns are not a solution to everything. I believe gun violence has taken a lot of youth and older people. There are things that can be solved with words, not just guns," Sonie said.
13News reached out to IMPD for any information or updates on this case. They said the case is still active and under investigation. If you have anything that might be helpful, you can reach out to the IMPD Homicide Office at 317-327-4275 or call Crime Stoppers of Central Indiana at 317-262-TIPS.