A Tacoma family is mourning the loss of 18-year-old Kadony Robbins, who was tragically shot and killed on Valentine’s Day. Tacoma police confirmed the arrest of a 15-year-old suspect, who has been charged with first-degree murder.
The shooting occurred around 1 a.m. on South G Street, where Robbins was attending a gathering at his girlfriend’s mother’s home. According to his mother, Chanel Jackson, Kadony had stepped outside to diffuse a heated situation, urging everyone to leave. Moments later, he was fatally shot.
“He only stepped out for a few hours, and it cost him his life,” Jackson said.
Neighbors reported hearing gunfire outside an apartment building. The teen was rushed to the hospital, but he succumbed to his injuries.
Kadony’s stepfather, Josh Holdway, expressed grief over the senseless loss. “He was so young. He was only 18 for three months. He didn’t even get a chance to start life,” he said.
Friends and family described Robbins as charismatic, with a passion for woodworking and rap music. A close friend shared an emotional tribute:
“He was the kindest person you’d meet. He’d always make you laugh or smile, no matter how you were feeling. It’s like he had a master key to making others happy, even if he wasn’t doing well himself. I’ll miss him forever and hope he gets the justice he deserves.”
Despite the unimaginable loss, Kadony’s mother is choosing forgiveness over anger. “It’s not a hurt game because they’re already going to spend the rest of their lives [in prison], and I don’t have my son for the rest of my life. So forgiveness is what looks better for me,” she said.
The investigation remains ongoing, and authorities have not released further details about additional suspects.
