Community gathering advocates end to gun violence

MIAMI GARDENS, Fla. (WSVN) -- A community-wide gathering outside a Miami Gardens church was united in a message of peace for 2013, Monday.

The event, titled "Lock Out the Violence," attempted to raise awareness about street violence. It was organized as a response to recent shootings in the community.

"We've come together to encourage the community to block the violence out," said Pastor Eric Readon of the New Beginnings Missionary Baptist Church. "Our goal is to reach these youth, to let them know that it is painful when a parent loses their child," he continued.

Readon was referring to resident Monica Tanksley, who lost her son to gun violence. "This community needs healing," Tanksley said. "I wouldn't want anyone to feel what I feel," she added.

Tanksley's 25-year-old son, Terrel Scott, was shot and killed while working on a car with his best friend. They were approached by armed robbers who were trying to steal rob their gold chains.

"Stay away from the guns, stay away from the drugs, stay away from criminal activity," said Readon. "I'd like to see the community coming together [to advocate] less violence, more hope for the future," said Tanksley.

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