AURORA, Mo. – The community of Aurora is mourning the loss of 19-year-old Garron McGlothlin after a tragic shooting incident that occurred at White Park. McGlothlin was taken to a hospital in Springfield where he succumbed to his injuries. Law enforcement authorities have apprehended a 17-year-old suspect who attempted to flee from the scene.
Family members describe McGlothlin as a vibrant presence who brightened every room he entered. For loved ones, his untimely death at the age of 19 represents a profound loss. McGlothlin’s sister, Toni Boykin, lamented, “He didn’t have a chance to make anything out of himself yet. He was still a kid, didn’t have a chance to make a family for himself. It’s not fair.”
Tragically, McGlothlin sustained a fatal gunshot wound to the head which led to his passing in the hospital. The family was devastated upon receiving the news, with McGlothlin’s brother, Joe, recalling the emotional moment he learned of the tragic event.
According to McGlothlin’s family, Garron displayed immense bravery by attempting to defuse the situation and protect others at White Park by intervening to remove the gun, ultimately risking his own life. Police Chief Wes Coatney revealed that the individuals involved had a pre-existing conflict that escalated at the park.
Following the incident, the suspect fled the scene with the weapon, prompting a large-scale manhunt involving numerous law enforcement agencies. The 17-year-old assailant was eventually captured after an extensive search effort that lasted nearly 12 hours.
A candlelight vigil was held at the park’s tennis courts to honor McGlothlin’s memory, with friends and family gathering to pay tribute to his life and the positive impact he had on those around him. Chief Coatney emphasized the rarity of such incidents in the community and expressed the profound impact they have on the affected individuals and the wider community.
Garron’s family is seeking justice for his senseless death and hopes that the legal system will ensure that the perpetrator faces appropriate consequences for his actions. The tragic loss of a young life has left the community reeling, reminding everyone of the devastating impact of violence within their midst.