Demarion Mikel Black was 16 and a student at Heritage Park High School when he was shot and killed in Owensboro, Kentucky. Described by friends and family as funny, loyal, and talented in football, basketball and rap, he was found with multiple gunshot wounds in the 1800 block of Hughes Avenue on the evening of June 24, 2023. Officers arrived at about 9:11 p.m.; he was taken to Owensboro Health Regional Hospital and later pronounced dead.

Investigators identified another 16-year-old male, Peiyton A. Smith, as a suspect. Smith faced charges including murder, possession of a handgun by a minor, and trafficking in marijuana; because of his age, his identity was not immediately released. The case was moved from juvenile court to adult circuit court. Demarion’s family described him as having a heart of gold and said his loss has been devastating.

If anyone saw activity on Hughes Avenue the evening of June 24, 2023, or has information about Demarion’s death, please come forward.