JACKSONVILLE BEACH, Fla. – A local mother is using her son's death to send a message of hope to youth.
"My message now is for people to think about their friends' decisions," said Tonya Love, the mother of Prosper Johnson. "One decision can affect your life."
Johnson was 17 years old when he was killed in a 2014 shootout on Linda Drive on Jacksonville's Northside. He was one of three young men who died in the shooting.
According to police, Johnson was with friends as they drove past a house part in the early evening, and his two passengers opened fire. People at the house shot back, and Johnson was caught in the cross fire, police said.
"I know he made one stupid mistake, and it cost him his life," Love told News4Jax on Friday. "I don't feel like it should have. He should be incarcerated, maybe injured. But I don't think anybody had to shoot him seven or eight times."
Love released her son's ashes along Jacksonville Beach after he died. She said that's where he spent his peaceful moments, and where she now visits often because she can feel her son's energy.
"I know he's happy and in a good place," the mother said.
The beach is also where Love recorded a new music video in her son's memory.
Love also shared a book that she wrote titled, "I Got This Promise from My Father: No Weapon Shall 'Prosper.'" In it, she talks about overcoming the tragic loss of her son. She also volunteers to speak with at-risk youth on behalf of the Department of Justice.
"Proper wanted to become a merchant seaman. That was his goal," Love said. "My mission now is to have people off the streets and into the sea. That's what I'm going to try to strive to do."
The State Attorney's Office is still investigating this case. Anyone with information is asked to call Crime Stoppers at 866-845-TIPS (8477). Callers can remain anonymous.