'My son made the ultimate sacrifice:' Family of Steven Eason reflects one year later
PITTSBURGH (KDKA) - Today marked one year since the death of Central Catholic student—Steven Eason, Jr.
The 15-year-old sophomore was shot and killed while trying to break up a fight at the Haunted Hills Hayride in North Versailles. Today, the Eason family celebrated his life by hosting a memorial basketball tournament in East Liberty.
Eason's mother told the crowd to live the life her son wasn't able to have.
While the family waits for justice and a wrongful death lawsuit has been filed, today was about honoring Steven with something he loved--basketball.
Today marked the first Steven Eason, Jr. Memorial Basketball Classic in East Liberty.
Steven's former coach helped plan this tournament in his memory.
Kids came together, four teams competed, and there were speakers and resources for youth and their families.
Steven's parents said their son was an avid basketball fan and loved to play the game. They also want to raise awareness and give youth support and a positive platform.
"The only thing I ask of you guys is to live. Work towards your dreams. Work hard. And live your life and enjoy it. Life is what you make it; don't be in a rush to grow up. Enjoy being a child. Enjoy all the benefits you have in life," Shantel Pizaro, Steven's mother, said.
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"I think it's beautiful. I think everybody coming out to help support my son is just an awesome thing. Everybody loved him. Everybody misses him. I miss him as well," the senior Eason said.
Police have not identified or arrested Eason's killer.
