11-year-old killed in Iowa school shooting was a joyful boy known as ‘Smiley,’ his mother says. The first day back to school after winter break in Perry, Iowa, was horrific when 11-year-old Ahmir Jolliff, known as “Smiley” by his family, was shot at Perry High School. Ahmir’s excitement and energy shaped the neighborhood.
“He loved everyone and was well-liked. He’s so outgoing.” Ahmir Jolliff’s mother, Erica.
His mother, Erica Jolliff, described Ahmir, a sixth-grader at the high school-connected middle school, as a flurry of happy energy. He had a trunk of toys in his front yard for anyone to play with, displaying his graciousness. Ahmir loved soccer, played the tuba, sung in the chorus, and often asked how others were.
Dylan Butler, a 17-year-old student, shot Ahmir in the cafeteria that morning, killing him. Ahmir died after three shots, despite first responders’ efforts. Seven people, including school workers and pupils, were wounded before the attacker killed himself.
Ahmir’s mother recounted the terrible search for her children when officials arrived after the incident. Ahmir was regrettably still inside the building while his sister was recovered unharmed.
News that Dylan Butler was bullied for years has complicated the tragedy. Ahmir’s mother offered Butler’s family her condolences, realizing their suffering. Butler’s background and educational environment are being scrutiny in the shooting.
Perry Superintendent Clark Wicks defended the district’s bullying policy, underlining its seriousness. Perry’s close-knit school district is dealing with the repercussions and rehabilitation.
Ahmir’s mother, grieving her son, described him as happy and sociable. He provided joy to everyone with his constant smile and big dimples. She hoped the tragedy would not be in vain and urged administrators to emphasize students’ well-being.
“I just pray that what we lost isn’t in vain and that other things can be put in place with the school system,” said Jolliff.
The tragedy has shaken Perry’s tight-knit community, which is currently grieving and supporting Ahmir’s family. On the first anniversary of Ahmir’s death, community residents, Mayor Darrell Steinberg, and other leaders will remember the joyous youngster who touched many at Tyre Nichols Skatepark in Natomas.
Tony Hawk’s organization worked with Sacramento to improve and rename the Natomas skatepark in Ahmir’s honor. The candlelight vigil on Sunday at 5 p.m. honors Ahmir and all families touched by police violence, underlining the need for justice and systemic change.
The community is sad about Ahmir’s death while the court case starts. In August, the four former police officers who are being charged with his death will go to court. Fifth, Desmond Mills Jr., a former cop who pleaded guilty, will speak out against his coworkers.
While grieving, Ahmir’s family shows resilience and drive to pursue justice. The neighborhood and friends’ support has helped, but losing a child to police brutality is still painful.
An August trial date intensifies the vigil’s quest of Ahmir’s justice. As they mourn Ahmir’s death and fight for change, the community will show its solidarity and dedication to remembering his infectious enthusiasm.
Erica Jolliff, Ahmir’s mother, said, “The past year has been difficult, but community and friend support has helped us. Please pray for our family as we face the year ahead. The skatepark will be illuminated by candlelight, symbolizing both loss and hope for a future without police brutality.
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