Memphis Community Mourns the Loss of 16-Year-Old Antonio Fason Jr.
Memphis, Tenn. — Last Sunday was a day that no parent ever wants to experience. The community of Cordova was shaken to its core as news spread about the tragic loss of 16-year-old Antonio Fason Jr., who fell victim to gun violence. His mother, Courtney McMullen, is now bravely stepping forward to share the beautiful memories of her son—memories that she hopes will help others understand the deep impact of gun violence on families.
A Bright Smile and Big Dreams
“Antonio was just so outgoing, outspoken, and always smiling,” McMullen reminisces, her voice filled with both warmth and heartache. She recalls how her son, who had just celebrated his 16th birthday in September, was eagerly looking forward to life ahead. “He always asked me for permission to go get his haircut or to visit the haunted house with his friends. It was never a dull moment with him,” she said.
Antonio was a junior at Germantown High School and had plans for the future—dreams of graduating and even going into the military. “He had bigger plans,” McMullen emphasized. “He was a good kid. He wasn’t carjacking, he wasn’t robbing, he wasn’t doing any of that. He was just at a friend’s house enjoying his time.” Sadly, a simple hangout turned into a nightmare.
A Mother’s Last Words
On the day of the incident, McMullen had spoken to Antonio earlier in the day, asking if he’d prefer for her to pick him up before or after church. “He told me to come after,” she said. Unfortunately, a few hours later, she received a phone call that would change her life forever. Just before 3 p.m., deputies found Antonio lying in an alley with a gunshot wound. He was later pronounced dead at Regional One Hospital.
“My baby was just sixteen. He didn’t deserve this at all,” McMullen lamented. As any parent would, she wishes she could have been there in his final moments. “I hate I wasn’t there. I was only ten minutes away.” Her pain is palpable, echoing the heart of many parents who have faced similar tragedies.
A Painful Revelation
The grieving mother faces another layer of heartbreak, as she learned that the suspect arrested in her son’s death is a 16-year-old who was one of Antonio’s best friends. “My baby even started calling that little boy his brother,” she said incredulously. “It’s surreal to me because I don’t understand why this happened. Why would he do that to someone he considered a brother?”
McMullen has long warned her son about the dangers of trusting others too easily, but the reality of losing him to such betrayal is overwhelming. “I used to always sit with him and tell him, ‘All these kids are not your friends,'” she shared, looking back on the conversations they had.
Community Support and a Plea for Justice
In the aftermath of this tragedy, McMullen has taken the brave step of starting a GoFundMe to help lay her son to rest. She hopes that her son’s story will resonate with others and perhaps prevent more families from facing the agony she now endures.
The Memphis community is coming together in support of McMullen and her family during this difficult time, proving that while gun violence is a heartbreaking reality, love and support from friends and neighbors can provide a glimmer of hope in times of despair.
Looking Ahead
This devastating incident serves as a reminder of the urgent need for stronger measures to combat gun violence and protect our youth. Antonio’s wish for a hopeful future should never be overshadowed by a senseless act of violence. As we remember Antonio Fason Jr., let us carry his memory forward and fight for a safer environment for all children.
