Philadelphia Teenager, Prep Basketball Star Killed in Pulse Nightclub Shooting
Photo via West Catholic Prep High School
One of the victims of the horrific Pulse Nightclub shooting in Orlando was a Philadelphia prep basketball star with a bright future.
West Catholic Prep today confirmed that Akyra Murray was killed in the weekend shooting. The 2016 graduate of the school was just 18.
Just a month ago, Murray had signed a national letter of intent to attend Mercyhurst University on a full athletic scholarship. Per the school, she scored more than 1,000 points and received multiple All-Catholic honors during her tenure. She had transferred to West Catholic from Bishop McDevitt at the start of her junior year.
West Catholic released a statement:
West Catholic Prep is terribly saddened to report that Akyra Murray ’16 has been confirmed as a victim in the mass shooting in Orlando this weekend. Akyra was on a family vacation to celebrate graduation and visit her brother. A recent graduate, Akyra was a superstar who was a leader amongst her classmates and teammates. She was an honors student whom graduated third in her class, and a 1,000 point scorer on the Lady Burrs basketball team. Akyra recently signed a letter of intent to play basketball at Mercyhurst College. May God bless Akyra’s soul and provide comfort to all family and friends during this very troubling time.
At a time like this, let us work together to move beyond fear. Let us come together to find peace and strength in God, seeking comfort from our loved ones—and in our community. Grief counselors will be on hand at West Catholic Prep for all students the rest of the week. The school is planning a vigil to honor Akyra’s memory and all whom wish to attend are welcomed. The vigil is planned for the evening of Wednesday, June 15 and more details will be released on our website when arrangements are final.
Our hearts are broken, but together we will mourn Akyra’s loss and provide comfort to one another to honor the memory of such a wonderful young lady.
Action News reports Murray was at the club with her friend, Patience Carter, a University City High School graduate. Carter, an NYU student, was shot in the leg during the attack but is expected to survive.
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