A 13-year-old Louisiana boy, Sha’michal Russell, has been recognized as a hero after he was killed while shielding his younger sister from gunfire at an apartment complex basketball court in Shreveport. The incident, which occurred last Monday, involved a shooter firing multiple rounds from a distance, according to Shreveport Police. Sha’michal later succumbed to his injuries at the hospital.
Sha’michal was among three children who were shot during the incident. Jessica Haley, who serves as the Shreveport Police Department’s chaplain and is Sha’michal’s aunt, confirmed that the 13-year-old was actively trying to protect his 3-year-old sister when the shooting began. Haley described him as "a hero," emphasizing his loving heart and selflessness in shielding his own sister. Thanks to Sha’michal's courageous actions, his younger sister was not among the children injured in the shooting.
In recognition of his bravery, Sha’michal will posthumously receive the Youth Heroism Award from the Youth Peace & Justice Foundation, also known as the Uvalde Foundation. This national award honors young individuals who display exceptional courage, compassion, and a readiness to assist others during critical moments. The foundation noted that Sha’michal will be the first teenager to be honored with this award posthumously.
Family members remember Sha’michal as a loving and playful boy who consistently helped his neighbors. He had a passion for sports, brought laughter to those around him, and deeply cared for his sister. Daniel Chapin, founder and president of the Youth Peace & Justice Foundation, shared that Sha’michal's family described a boy who loved his little sister and endeavored to protect her. Chapin added that Sha’michal, at only 13 years old, should still be alive and growing up with his family, expressing the foundation's desire to acknowledge the courage his family recounted and ensure people remember Sha’michal for his life and character.
To support Sha’michal’s family with funeral and memorial costs, the foundation has initiated an emergency fundraiser. Additional funds may also provide emergency assistance to the two other shooting victims, aged 2 and 17, and their families, once their specific needs are verified. Chapin affirmed the foundation's commitment to verifying recipients and delivery methods to ensure that the raised money directly reaches the families in need.
In connection with the shooting, Shreveport Police have arrested two cousins, Javion Abbott and Alonzo Abbott, both 19 years old. Javion Abbott faces charges of second-degree murder and two counts of attempted second-degree murder. Alonzo Abbott is charged with one count of principal to second-degree murder and two counts of principal to attempted second-degree murder. Police stated that the investigation remains active, and further arrests are possible as the case progresses.