COLUMBIA, S.C. — A Mother’s Fight for Justice Following Tragic Loss
On a somber Friday morning, emotions ran high as Adrian Lake Watson, the mother of 16-year-old Julian Keel, held a press conference that left many in tears. With determination etched on her face, she spoke passionately about her son’s tragic death, which she described as a result of “senseless violence.” Her heartfelt words resonated deeply with those in attendance as she vowed to seek justice and push for change within the community.
“It’s the last thing I do, I’m cleaning up this community,” Watson declared with fierce conviction. “We are cleaning up these streets. These guns, these bullets are too readily available to children making adult decisions.” Her powerful message underscored a growing concern regarding gun violence and the safety of young individuals in Columbia.
Julian’s Life Cut Short
Julian, affectionately known as Juju, was a rising senior at W.J. Keenan High School. His life was tragically cut short around 12:30 a.m. on June 2 when he was fatally shot while leaving a graduation party in the parking lot of Colonial Village. According to investigators, Keel was an innocent bystander caught in a chaotic situation that no one could have predicted.
Since the shooting, two individuals have been arrested in connection to the case, but Watson insists that her fight for justice goes far beyond this. “I’m changing these streets because we will have justice for Juju no matter what,” she asserted, drawing strength from her profound love for her son.
Legal Action and Community Safety
In a move that has caught the attention of many, Watson announced plans to file a civil lawsuit against Unum Group and Colonial Life, the owners of the property where the tragic event transpired. She is supported by a legal team that includes former U.S. Attorney Pete Strom and renowned civil rights attorney Bakari Sellers. They believe that these companies failed to provide adequate security and thus contributed to the dangerous environment where the tragedy occurred.
Sellers emphasized the need for accountability, stating, “What has to stop is people paying $100 to $200 to throw these big parties with absolutely no security, while large businesses and corporations turn a blind eye.” He made it clear that while the companies did not commit the awful act, their negligence played a role in allowing it to happen.
In response to these allegations, Unum Group expressed their condolences and stated their intention to cooperate with local law enforcement during the ongoing investigation. However, Sellers countered this position, arguing that despite requests for enhanced security following the shooting, no meaningful changes have been made to improve safety measures at Colonial Village.
Honoring Julian’s Memory
In honor of her son, who had dreams of playing football at the University of South Florida and studying engineering, Watson unveiled plans to raise funds for an endowed scholarship at the university’s College of Engineering. Additionally, she has founded “Ju’stice,” a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting families of murder victims and combating youth gun violence, showcasing her commitment to creating a safer community.
A Message to the Community
In closing, Watson delivered a heartfelt message to anyone considering resorting to violence: “Ask yourself, do you want your mama sitting on the front pew crying because you’re laying in a casket or crying in the courthouse because you’re going to jail for life? You better ask yourself that question before you pull the trigger.” Her plea aims to make a profound impact, encouraging positive change among the youth in Columbia.
Seeking Justice
Watson, alongside her legal team, is urging anyone with information regarding the shooting to reach out to local authorities, emphasizing the importance of community involvement in the pursuit of justice. “Don’t stay silent; your voice can make a difference,” she encourages.
The community stands alongside Watson in her fight, hoping for change and justice for Julian Keel, a young life taken far too soon.
