East Point, GA – A community is grieving once again after a shocking and heartbreaking loss in Cobb County. Kenneth Collier Jr., a 17-year-old who had become an outspoken advocate against gun violence, was tragically shot and killed Thursday night. His death echoes a painful chapter from seven years ago when his mother, Tamika Trimble, was also a victim of gun violence.
The young activist, known for his vibrant personality, love for music, and dreams of building his own fashion brand, had been attending Eagles Landing High School. He often spoke out passionately about the impact of gun violence on communities and families, determined to prevent others from enduring the same heartbreak. However, on Thursday, his life was cut short in a senseless act of violence.
Kenneth’s father, Ken Collier, is devastated by this loss and now faces the unimaginable task of mourning his son, just as he still grieves for his wife. Tamika Trimble was murdered in 2017—on Kenneth’s 10th birthday—leaving him to grow up without his mother. “A lot of times he would cry at night just thinking about his mom and would always say he didn’t want that to happen to him,” said Collier during a vigil held in East Point to remember his son.
On Thursday night, Kenneth was visiting family in Austell when he informed his sister that he was going to meet someone. Moments later, Cobb County police responded to the Residence at Riverside apartments, where Kenneth was found shot multiple times. He was rushed to the hospital but tragically passed away.
The loss of Kenneth has left his family devastated. His father, heartbroken and determined, vows to ensure justice for both his son and wife. “Seven years and they never made an arrest in his mom’s murder. Now it happened to him, and I’ll make sure they make an arrest this time,” Collier said.
Cobb County police are working diligently to uncover the details surrounding Kenneth’s death. Investigators are urging anyone with information to come forward and assist in finding the person responsible. This heartbreaking event serves as a stark reminder of the impact gun violence continues to have on families across the nation.
