The Ahwatukee community is grieving the tragic loss of 15-year-old Jaylen Reeves, who died after being stabbed early Saturday morning.
Police responded to a call at approximately 3 a.m. near 36th Street and Long Lake Road, where Reeves was found with life-threatening injuries. Despite being rushed to the hospital, he succumbed to his injuries later that night.
Reeves, a sophomore at Mountain Pointe High School, was a talented athlete who had made the varsity football team as a freshman. Friends and family remembered him as a joyful, positive, and driven young man with aspirations of playing college and professional football.
“He was so physical and explosive in football,” said Damarion Cox, a close friend. “Seeing him play was joyful. I’m going to keep his legacy alive in my heart.”
Reeves’ loved ones gathered for a vigil outside Chandler Regional Medical Center and at a lakeside memorial in Ahwatukee to honor his memory. His family revealed that he left behind three brothers and that he decided to donate his organs in order to save others.
Police believe the incident occurred during a fight between Reeves and an unknown suspect or suspects while he was with friends. No suspects have been identified, and authorities are urging anyone with information or surveillance footage to contact Silent Witness at 480-WITNESS or 480-TESTIGO.
The Tempe Union High School District expressed its condolences and has arranged for counselors to be available at the Mountain Pointe and Desert Vista campuses. In a statement, the district emphasized their commitment to providing emotional support to all impacted by the tragedy.
A family friend has launched a GoFundMe campaign to assist with funeral expenses, reflecting the outpouring of support from the community.
Residents are heartbroken. “I’m devastated with this tragedy,” said Erin Narbut, a neighbor.
The homicide investigation continues, as loved ones and the wider community mourn the loss of a promising young life taken far too soon.