Justice for Gavin: Community members protest as teens death goes without an arrest
SNOW HILL, Md. – “It’s still unreal, I guess for his parents it’s very real because he’s not home. For me, I feel like he’s at his mom’s but I know he’s not,” said Family Friend, Caroline Barber.
A heartbreaking reality for both family and friends after 14-year-old Gavin Knupp’s life was taken following a hit and run.
Friday they stood outside the Worcester County State’s Attorney’s office with tears, picket signs, and a powerful message.
“Justice for Gavin.”
“Between the days and the nights, they just go together and we don’t know why, why this has gone on so long and why no arrests have been made,” Tina Getzey, Gavin’s Great Aunt.
The tragedy unfolded on July 11th… now almost 2 months later, there have been no arrests, no named suspects, and no answers.
“It’s very frustrating, I think everyone feels like something should be done by now,” explained Jordan Hyle, Gavin’s Former Babysitter.
So why hasn’t there been any more movement in the case — that the public is aware of?
47ABC News reached out to the Maryland State Police Crash Team, who is currently handling the case. They referred us to the press release they sent out on July 18th. The release details the suspected car, and location of the crash on Grays Corner Road at Riddle Lane in Berlin.
The report says Knupp was hit the 11th and the car was found at a residence six days later with DNA evidence from the scene.
And yet, there have still been no arrests and this was the last update on the incident.
“No one’s had the audacity to come forward, I mean they didn’t stop, they’re still not coming forward, I mean it’s just unexplainable, unimaginable, I don’t know how they live with themselves,” said Barber.
Across social media, support pages have been made and memorials have been held across the County.
But none of that answers… who’s responsible for this teen’s death.
“Gavin’s life is gone forever, and they should be accountable. All of them should be accountable,” said Getzey.
As protestors stood outside, I went inside, requesting an interview with Worcester County State’s Attorney, Kristin Heiser.
I was turned away and told it was an active investigation.
So who was driving the vehicle that killed Gavin?
Will those involved ever come forward?
“Do it for Gavin, do it for yourself, do it for the community,” said Caroline. “I mean if it were your child wouldn’t you want to do it?”
Until an arrest is made, those who love Gavin, will continue to speak out to remind the justice system that they’re still waiting for closure.
“I don’t think any of us are going to go away until we see justice for Gavin and his family, we’re not going to stay quiet, we’re going to keep pushing,” said Hyle.
He’s not going to be forgotten, he may be gone but he will never be forgotten,” said Getzey.
A foundation is being created for Gavin. On October 22nd, the family is hosting a benefit at the Ocean Pines Skate Park, where they plan to rename the park in his honor.
47ABC News will continue to follow any updates of this case.
