FORT WAYNE, IN – A deep sense of grief has settled over the Fort Wayne community following the tragic and untimely death of Kardenai Anthony Hollis, a 16-year-old boy who lost his life in a fatal shooting over the weekend. Authorities confirmed that Kardenai was the victim found at the scene of a deadly shooting that took place around 3:00 a.m. on Saturday, July 20, 2025, in the 1800 block of River Run Trail, located within the Woodbridge Apartments complex on the city’s north side.
Officers with the Fort Wayne Police Department responded to multiple reports of gunfire in the area and arrived to find the teenage victim suffering from critical injuries. Despite the rapid response of emergency personnel and paramedics, Kardenai was pronounced dead at the scene. The Allen County Coroner’s Office later confirmed his identity and ruled the cause of death as homicide by gunshot wounds.
A Young Life Cut Short
At just 16 years old, Kardenai Anthony Hollis had his entire future ahead of him—a future tragically stolen in an act of violence that has left his family and friends devastated. Known to those closest to him as thoughtful, kind, and full of energy, Kardenai was a young man with big dreams. He attended Northrop High School, where he was admired for his quick wit, loyalty, and warm personality. His teachers recall him as a promising student with a bright mind, while friends describe him as someone who could bring laughter to even the most difficult days.
Kardenai loved music, sports, and spending time with his younger siblings, whom he adored. He often spoke of wanting to pursue a career in business and was known for encouraging his peers to “stay focused and out of trouble.” His tragic death stands in stark contrast to the aspirations he held and the light he brought into the lives of those around him.
An Ongoing Investigation
As of now, no arrests have been made in connection to Kardenai’s death. The Fort Wayne Police Department’s Homicide Division is actively investigating the shooting, and detectives are working to determine what led up to the fatal gunfire in the early hours of Saturday morning. Police have not yet released information about a possible suspect or motive.
The department is urging anyone with information about the incident—no matter how minor it may seem—to come forward. Anonymous tips can be submitted through Crime Stoppers at (260) 436-STOP, and any leads could prove vital in helping Kardenai’s family get the justice they deserve.
A Family’s Grief and a Community’s Call for Change
In a statement released through a family spokesperson, Kardenai’s mother expressed her heartbreak:
“My son was loving, respectful, and full of promise. He didn’t deserve to be taken like this. We want justice for Kardenai—not just for our family, but to stop this from happening to someone else’s child.”
The outpouring of support from the community has been swift and overwhelming. A memorial of flowers, candles, and handwritten messages now stands near the entrance of the Woodbridge Apartments, where residents have gathered in silent tribute to the young life lost. A candlelight vigil is being organized for this Friday evening at the site of the shooting, where loved ones will share memories and honor Kardenai’s short but impactful life.
A Call for Justice and Peace
The murder of Kardenai Anthony Hollis is another stark reminder of the devastating toll that gun violence continues to take on America’s youth. His name now joins the tragic list of young lives lost too soon—lives that should have been filled with joy, learning, and opportunity.
City leaders, including Mayor Tom Henry and youth advocates across Fort Wayne, are renewing calls for community action, stronger prevention programs, and greater engagement to address the root causes of violence. A spokesperson for Fort Wayne UNITED, a city initiative aimed at improving outcomes for Black males, stated:
“We cannot allow ourselves to grow numb to the pain. Kardenai deserved more. Every young person does.”
Final Arrangements
Funeral arrangements for Kardenai Anthony Hollis are currently being finalized by his family and will be announced in the coming days. Community members are encouraged to continue supporting the Hollis family through donations, messages of condolence, and by attending the upcoming vigil.
As the investigation continues, Fort Wayne remains united in grief, prayer, and a collective demand for answers and justice for Kardenai—a bright soul extinguished far too soon.
Rest in peace, Kardenai. You were loved, and you will never be forgotten.
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