A memorial event was held in Northampton on Saturday to honor Rohan ‘Fred’ Shand, a 16-year-old boy who tragically lost his life to knife crime. The outdoor service included a minute of silence and a balloon release, with attendees coming together to remember Fred and raise awareness about the dangers of carrying knives.
Fred’s father, Rohan Shand Snr, shared his desire to establish a foundation in his son’s name to deter young people from carrying weapons. He emphasized the importance of seeking help and resolving conflicts peacefully, rather than resorting to violence. Mr. Shand expressed his grief over the loss of his son and the lasting impact it has had on his family.
The community gathered at King’s Heath Square for the vigil, where Bishop Donnovan Allen led prayers and highlighted the ongoing trauma experienced by students affected by Fred’s death. Anti-knife-crime campaigner Quinton Green emphasized the need for early intervention and education to prevent similar tragedies from occurring in the future.
The event served as a reminder of the devastating consequences of knife crime and the importance of coming together to support those affected. Initiatives like the foundation in Fred’s name aim to promote peace and understanding among young people, emphasizing the value of life and the need to address conflicts through non-violent means.
