First memorial 5K honors Ocoee teen killed in accidental shooting

A Central Florida family held the first memorial 5K in Winter Garden to honor Lavardo “Eljay” Fisher, a 13-year-old from Ocoee who died in an accidental shooting in 2016, WKMG News 6 ClickOrlando reported.

The event brought together Fisher’s family, former teachers, coaches, and community members, including representatives from Ocoee Middle School, where Fisher once attended.

Fisher’s mother expressed deep emotion over the support, saying she was overwhelmed by the turnout and the love shown by the community.

The family emphasized that the race aims to preserve Fisher’s memory while raising awareness about the importance of securing firearms to prevent similar tragedies.

Fisher’s stepfather noted that many children still find unsecured guns in homes, highlighting the need for safer storage practices.

The family also shared that grief has no expiration, and the event serves as a way to keep Fisher’s memory alive and encourage others to take preventive measures.