Family of man shot while driving on I-95 in Philadelphia wants justice: "They took my son from me"
It's been exactly 28 days since Aiden Zeallor, 21, was shot and killed. And every day that passes, Zeallor's parents said the loss is as painful as it was the day he was killed.
"His life was just so tragically cut short. It's not fair and it's not right," Denise Donahue said. "It's not comprehensible that I'm never going to see him again or talk to him again."
Pennsylvania State Police said Zeallor was murdered on March 29 while he was driving on I-95 between Cottman and Bridge avenues in Port Richmond. It happened around 2:30 a.m. His parents said he was driving home to Northeast Philadelphia at the time.
"This was not a road rage incident. This was not [a] racing incident. My son and his friend were just driving home and they was at the wrong place at the wrong time and they got caught in the crossfire that was not meant for him," Donahue said.
Zeallor's mom said police have kept them updated on the investigation, but so far, no arrests have been made.
"Whatever else these people have done, they took my son from me, and that needs to be brought to justice," Donahue said.
His parents continue to struggle with the fact that their son was taken from them. They described him as a good person who was outgoing and always willing to help others. It's something he continued to do even after his death by donating his organs. Zeallor's mom says he saved four lives.
"I know they are so grateful because one of the recipients only had 48 hours left to live and we changed those people's lives," Donahue said.
Donahue said it's something her son would've wanted. On Sunday, the family will honor him by taking part in the 28th annual Donor Dash at the Philadelphia Navy Yard.
Zeallor's parents said the tragedy stole what was a promising future for the 21-year-old, but they also say they take solace in knowing his legacy will live on through others.
"I found comfort in changing other people's lives in my darkest time," Donahue said.
