Nationwide — Jakaylan Summers, an African American teen from Memphis, Tennessee, was critically injured in a mass shooting. While he remained in intensive care, his mother, Jennifer, accepted his high school diploma at graduation in his place.
Authorities said Jakaylan was one of seven people shot on May 8 during the pre-prom gathering in Brownsville, as reported by WLBT. He remained hospitalized as Liberty High School held its graduation ceremony, and his mother walked the stage to receive his diploma.
He suffered gunshot wounds to both arms and has undergone four surgeries, with another planned. His mother said he cannot move his arms while he continues to recover in the hospital.
Jennifer Summers said her son recently became a father, but cannot hold his newborn child because of his injuries. She recalled him saying, “Mama, this feels like a nightmare,” as he dealt with the pain and trauma.
She said she had planned to attend graduation months earlier as a proud parent, not to take his place on stage. She described feeling shocked, angry, and heartbroken over what happened to her son.
His grandmother, Leona Wilson, raised questions about the motive behind the shooting. Authorities have not announced any arrests in the case.
Six others were injured in the same incident, including 17-year-old Saturah Hayes of Haywood County, who died from her injuries. Her death has added to calls for answers from the community.
The Tennessee Bureau of Investigation is asking anyone with information to come forward. Officials said tips can be submitted anonymously.