A 13-year-old boy who was killed in a double shooting in Philadelphia’s West Oak Lane neighborhood on Tuesday will be honored with a memorial tree. On Thursday, April 9, The Youth Peace Justice Foundation, formed after the 2022 mass shooting in Uvalde, Texas, announced that it will honor the l ife of Amir Akers with a memorial tree to be planted in the Allegheny National Forest. Akers will also be added to the Foundation’s national Trees For Peace Memorial, which currently honors more than 70 young people who have lost their lives to gun violence. “In the face of such senseless loss, we are committed to ensuring Amir’s life is remembered in a way that reflects growth, peace, and enduring impact,” said Daniel Chapin, Founder of the Youth Peace Justice Foundation. “This memorial tree will stand as a living tribute—rooted in strength, rising in hope, and honoring a young life taken far too soon.” There are additional resources for people or communities that have endured gun violence in Philadelphia. Further information can be found here. According to police, Akers and a 14-year-old boy were shot multiple times at around 8:45 p.m. on Tuesday, April 7, on the 7100 block of North 19th Street following an altercation at a makeshift basketball court. Police said it is possible that rival groups played a role in the shooting, but that has not been confirmed. Akers suffered multiple gunshot wounds to his back and shoulder and died at a nearby hospital at around 9:20 p.m., police said. The 14-year-old boy was listed in stable but critical condition at a nearby hospital after being shot in his legs. The Philadelphia School District said in a letter to parents that Akers was a popular student who was known for his love of sports. “It is with a heavy heart that I write to inform you of the passing of one of our students whose life was tragically taken last night near his home,” the statement read. “Our deepest condolences and thoughts go out to the family and friends of this student. The student was very popular and known as a sports enthusiast who played many sports.” The Youth Peace Justice Foundation said the memorial tree to honor Akers will serve as a place of reflection not only for his family, but for all those impacted by youth violence. Moreover, the Foundation said it is exploring opportunities to coordinate a supplemental or future local memorial in the Philadelphia area to provide greater accessibility for the boy’s family and community members. “This is about more than remembrance,” Chapin said. “It is about transforming grief into something that continues to live, grow, and inspire. Amir’s story will not be forgotten, and now his memory joins the growing national tribute to youth lives lost to violence.” No arrests have been made in this case, and the motive is still unknown. Anyone with any information on the incident is urged to contact the Philadelphia Police Department at 215-686-TIPS (8477) or anonymously online here. ...read more read less