Jerod Long, 38, was shot and killed in Durham, North Carolina, on December 22, 2016. Officers responding to Cherry Creek Drive found Long suffering from gunshot wounds; he did not survive despite immediate response. The death came weeks after another family loss, intensifying the tragedy for relatives.

Long was remembered as charming and easy-going and for his love of helping others. His killing is one of the cases cited in Durham’s ongoing efforts to address gun violence. Any readers who knew Jerod, his routines, or who have information about the shooting are asked to come forward.