INDIANAPOLIS — The community came together Monday, Sept. 2 to remember a 3-year-old boy who was shot and killed on the northeast side of Indianapolis last month.
Armonie Booker's father, Arieon Anderson, said he's relying on the comfort of his family and friends while he continues to grieve his son.
"That's the only thing keeping me going, the fact that I know he's here still. Not physically, but mentally, emotionally and spiritually, he's still with me," Anderson said.
Those family and friends came together once again to surround Anderson and flood him with support, love and to remember Armonie on Monday.
"He was just energetic, outgoing, funny, always playful and full of joy," said Armonie's cousin, Kejuan Oliver.
They brought with them balloons with his favorite cartoon character, Spider-Man.
"That was his favorite show. That's all he wanted to watch is 'Spider-Man.' Play and 'Spider-Man,'" Anderson said.
"Knowing all of these people he touched, so many minds and hearts. We are just so grateful to be in his life," Oliver said.
Armonie's time on Earth may have been short, but his father believes he can still make a difference.
"Innocent lives are being taken due to ignorance. It's like, 'When does it get old?'" Anderson said.
"i just want us to put the guns down and really enjoy life how it used to be," Oliver said.
One week later, there is still no arrest in the shooting that killed Armonie and 22-year-old Jaishawn Johnson on Aug. 26 near Shadeland Avenue and 75th Street.
Armonie's family is looking for one thing.
"Justice for Armonie. That's all we want is justice for Armonie," Oliver said.
"Turn yourself in, man. It's only right. I feel it's the only thing right to do in a situation like that," Anderson said.
As they released the balloons into the sky, Anderson said he's holding on tight to the memories of his son.
"Just tell him to stay with me. I just need him to stay with me. As long as my journey continues, I just need him to stay with me. Stay in my heart and and my mind. Stay in my prayers," Anderson said.
IMPD said officers are searching through surveillance footage to find out what took place, but police are still asking for the public's help to learn more on the incident. The department is asking anyone with information to contact the investigating detective at 317-327-3475.
Anonymous tips can also be submitted by contacting Crime Stoppers of Central Indiana at 317-262-8477.