LAKE JACKSON, Texas – Hundreds of family members, friends, teammates and community advocates gathered Thursday night at MacLean Park to honor 18-year-old John Mendoza Jr., who was shot and killed by Brazoria County Sheriff’s deputy Kevin Tippit last week.
The candlelight vigil came just two days after Brazoria County Sheriff Bo Stallman announced the firing of Tippit.
Stallman made the announcement via social media, not taking any questions from reporters. The comments section on the video has been turned off.
KPRC 2 has reached out to the sheriff’s office to speak with the sheriff about Tippit but was told he will not make any further comment.
Mendoza, a Texas State University freshman and Brazoswood High School graduate, was remembered as a beloved son, teammate and friend whose loss has left a lasting impact on the community.
“He was sweetest person ever,” said friend Lily Tobias, who attended high school with Mendoza. “We loved him so much.”
Among those speaking at the vigil was Brazoswood High School head football coach Eric Luster, who announced Mendoza’s jersey number, 78, will never be worn again.
“Number 78 will never be worn again by anyone except for John,” said Luster.
The shooting happened shortly after midnight on June 1 when a brief pursuit ended at the Mendoza family’s home in Lake Jackson.
The family has said Mendoza was unarmed when he was shot. Radio traffic released after the shooting captured Tippit telling dispatchers the shooting was an accidental discharge.
“We are demanding transparency, accountability and ultimately justice,” said former Brazoria County NAACP President Eugene Howard. “We will not let the Texas Rangers and the D.A. drop the ball.”
KPRC 2 has confirmed both the Texas Rangers and the Brazoria County District Attorney’s Office are investigating the shooting. District Attorney Tom Selleck has previously said the process could take months.
As the sun set, attendees lit candles and repeatedly chanted “Justice for John.”
For many gathered at MacLean Park, Thursday night’s vigil was not only about remembering the young man they lost, but also about ensuring his name is not forgotten as the investigation continues.