Front row from left Margie Torres, mother of Javier Lopez, who was also killed, Jackie Rowe Adams, founder and CEO of Harlem Mothers S.A,V.E., Brandon’s mother, Eve Hendricks, NYC Council Member Vanessa L. Gibson (Photo by Jewel Webber)
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BY JENNA BAGCAL
For loved ones of the late Brandon Hendricks, Tuesday, July 7 was known as “Brandon Day.”
In memory of the rising basketball star gone too soon, friends and family gathered for a basketball tournament and vigil at Cortlandt Avenue and East 157th Street in Melrose at the same courts where Hendricks perfected his game.
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Hendricks, just 17-year-old was shot and killed just a week after he graduated from James Monroe High School. On July 6, cops arrested his alleged killer, 22-year-old Najhim Luke, who was charged with murder, manslaughter and criminal possession of a weapon.
Those who knew Hendricks remembered him fondly as a “charismatic, humble young man” who News 12 reported would have been playing basketball at West Hills Community College in California this fall.
Hendricks’ uncle, Noel Ellison, told News 12 that a memorial where teams play basketball was the “perfect sendoff” for his beloved nephew.
Photos by Jewel Webber
Attendees and friends of Brandon (second from the left is Assembly District 84 leader Oswald Denis)
Attendees and friends of the late Brandon Hendricks
An all-girls basketball team who played
An all-girls basketball team who played
Attendees at “Brandon Day” in commemoration of what would have been his 18th birthday
Trophies for winners of tournaments
Front row from left Margie Torres, mother of Javier Lopez, who was also killed, Jackie Rowe Adams, founder and CEO of Harlem Mothers S.A,V.E., Brandon’s mother, Eve Hendricks, NYC Council Member Vanessa L. Gibson
Reverend prays before the release of the balloons
Balloons were distributed for release in honor of Brandon Hendricks
Brandon’s mom, Eve, and others wait to release balloons
Balloons released into the sky
Attendees and Family members of Brandon clap as balloons are released
Brandon’s sister is embraced as she grieves
Attendees pose for a photo with cutout of Brandon Hendricks
Assembly District 84 leader Oswald Denis, SOS (Save Our Streets) members and reverend who opened with prayer
Assembly District 84 leader Oswald Denis with NYPD members
Kevin Elison, Brandon’s dad and Assembly District 84 leader Oswald Denis
