CHESTERFIELD COUNTY, Va. -- Chesterfield mom Marie Harris will never stop praying that the person who killed her son is caught.
“I just hope they are remorseful for what they did,” Harris said.
She and her family have struggled through the last year trying to cope with losing 7-year-old Brendon Mackey to celebratory gunfire.
“We very much love him," she said. "His brother and sister miss him very much."
"I think it’s sad that this had to happen to bring to people’s attention that you can’t just shoot guns in the air," she added.
Lawmakers recently passed Brendon’s Law, which cracks down on celebratory gunfire. If a person is injured under that circumstance, the shooter could be punished with up to five years in prison, if convicted.
In advance of Friday’s year anniversary of Brendon’s death, CBS 6 News spotted fire and emergency crews at Brandermill’s Sunday Park, scoping out the area and firming up plans in the event an emergency arises.
Police, too are ramping up their plan to deal with gun owners who break the law.
This year, only residents who live in Brandermill will be allowed to attend the fireworks.
In order to get through, drivers will need to show proof of Brandermill residency or display their guest pass given to them by a Brandermill resident. Drivers going to The Boathouse restaurant will also be allowed through as long as they show proof of reservation.
“This is for their own safety,” John Bailey, community manager for Brandermill, said.
“It’s not okay. It kills. We know that we may not catch everyone, but those we do will be arrested, handcuffed, taken to jail and prosecuted to the fullest,” Major Kevin Smith said.
Even though the grief will be tough to deal with on the anniversary of Brendon’s death, Harris hopes the day will highlight last year’s tragedy and bring someone forward with information.
If you have information that can help police crack this case, you’re urged to call Crime Solvers at 748-0660.
