Fundraiser Started For Family Of Slain New London Teen

NEW LONDON, CT — A fundraiser has been started for the family of a 17-year-old high school student who was killed in a New London shooting.

Jennfier Fletcher, who started the fundraiser, wrote on GoFundMe that no parents should ever have to bury their child. "We have to do what’s right!"

As of this writing, $18,723 has been raised out of the $20,000 goal.

The victim was killed in a shooting at Grand and Elm streets last week.

The teen's father, James Ford, told WTNH News 8 that his son "was a great dude" and he was "loved by so many."

"We just want everyone to know he didn't deserve to be shot in the face twice. He was special...," his father said, according to News 8.

Superintendent of Schools Cynthia Ritchie released a statement saying "it is with the deepest regret and sadness that I inform you about the tragic and sudden loss of one of our high school students."

She said extra resources including counselors are being made available to help staff and students through this difficult period.

Anyone who has information and/or video concerning this shooting is encouraged to contact the New London Police Department's detective bureau at 860-447-1481 or anonymous information may be submitted via the New London Tips 411 system by texting NLPDTip plus the information to Tip411 (847411).

See related: 17-Year-Old Killed In New London Shooting