Vigil held for slain young women

Family, friends join to remember Shelby Farah, Amber Bass

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – It's been two months since 20-year-old Shelby Farah was shot and killed as she worked at the MetroPCS near 21st and North Main Street.

A 21-year-old man was arrested and charged with Farah's murder.

Family and friends met Saturday at the store location to leave flowers and balloons.

They were joined by loved ones of another murdered woman, 22-year-old Amber Bass.

Bass' friend, Susan Singer, said her family is just taking it day-by-day.

"We just try to cope everyday," Singer said. "I thought it would get easier as the day, you know, the days go by, but it doesn't."

Shelby's mother, Darlene Farah, said she's grateful for the community's support.

"Shelby's loved, a lot of people love her," said Darlene. "If it wasn't for the people in the community, and God, and Shelby, I wouldn't have made it this long."

Friends and family of both women placed flowers and balloons in front of the Brentwood store. As they reflect on the lives lost, they said their goal is to bring more attention to the number of murders still unsolved.

That includes the deaths of Jazmine Shelton and Megan Simmons, two teens who were shot and killed inside a mobile home last month.

Darlene said she met both girls' family members.

"I feel like I've known them forever. I don't know if it's because I can relate to what they're going through because I can actually stand up here and say I've been there," Darlene said.

Both Darlene and Susan said they hope their work inspires others to come forward about crimes, and bring families some much needed closure.


About the Author

Ashley Harding joined the Channel 4 news team in March 2013. She reports for and anchors The Morning Show.

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