14-year-old football player shot, killed in Petersburg by other teen, mother says

PETERSBURG, Va. (WRIC) -- A mother is heartbroken after her 14-year-old son was shot and killed at an apartment complex in Petersburg last Friday, Jan. 23.

Mesha Reed said her son, Ja'Quavyz Howell, was a football star in Petersburg with his whole life in front of him.

"My baby had so much to live for. They didn't even let him grow up. He was 14... all he wanted to do was to play football," she said. "I just don't get it."

Reed said Ja'Quayvz, known to the community as Quavo, went to the Lieutenant Run Apartments to hang out with his friends on Friday afternoon. She recalled talking to him on the phone to share that she'd pick him up when she got off work. Hours later, she received a call that Quavo had been shot.

On scene, she saw Quavo on the ground. He'd been shot several times.

"I tried to go get to him, saying, 'Can y'all get him off the ground?' she said. "I knew my baby was gone, he wasn't moving or doing anything."

The teen was taken to the hospital, but his mother believes he was gone on scene.

She said detectives called her that night confirming another teenager was in custody, accused of pulling the trigger.

The tragedy is sending shockwaves through the community and those who knew and loved the football star.

A GoFundMe was created to raise funds to assist the family. The creator wrote, "Quavo had a special way of touching everyone he met, leaving a lasting impact through his smile, spirit, and kindness."

If you have additional information, report it to the Petersburg Bureau of Police.