Family and friends of 21-year-old Keniesa Scott came together on Saturday to honor her memory following her tragic death on Halloween night in Deep Ellum. Scott, affectionately known as “Nene,” harbored aspirations of becoming a math teacher, demonstrating a commitment to building a meaningful future.
The gathering served as a poignant reminder of the life she lived and the potential she would never realize. “We know, and a lot of people always want to say good things about their family members that passed away, and they be like, ‘Everybody ain’t that good,’ but that’s a lie. This one was,” said Talisa Townsend, Scott’s aunt, highlighting the profound loss felt by those who knew her. Attendees wore shirts emblazoned with the phrase “Forever 21” in tribute to her vibrant spirit.
Scott was one of four victims killed amid a spate of violence in Deep Ellum over the Halloween weekend, which also left 15 others injured. The local community is grappling with the aftermath of the shootings, prompting a call for increased police presence and security measures in the area. While two arrests have been made in connection with the weekend’s violence, no one has yet faced charges for Scott’s death or the deaths of the other victims: Isaiah Boling, Anthony Martín, and Unique Benjamin.
In a statement reflecting on the need for justice, Townsend expressed solidarity with the families of all the victims, saying, “And everybody needs justice. We’re sorry and feel the other families’ pain.” David Yancy has been arrested for allegedly injuring seven individuals in one of the shootings, while another man faces weapons charges. However, the search continues for those responsible for the fatal incidents involving Scott and the others.
In response to the violence, local law enforcement has ramped up patrols and implemented additional security measures in collaboration with federal authorities. As the investigation unfolds, Scott’s family is left grappling with the emotional toll of her loss and the unanswered questions surrounding it. “That’s the problem to me and a lot of people,” Townsend remarked. “Because to me, how is it your choice to take a life you didn’t create?”
Despite the sorrow, Scott’s family remains resolute in their belief that her legacy will endure. “Her name will live on,” Townsend affirmed. “She will get justice. She’ll get it.”
Dallas police are actively seeking information regarding the shootings and encourage anyone with knowledge to come forward and assist in the ongoing investigation.
