The Seattle community is in mourning following the tragic and untimely deaths of two 16-year-old teens, Jahaz Phillips and Myion Coleman, whose lives were abruptly ended by gun violence. Found along Interstate 5, their deaths not only signify a profound loss for their families and friends but also highlight the ongoing crisis of gun violence affecting young lives.
Jahaz Phillips was discovered in the early hours, lying in the first lane of the northbound Interstate 5 near N 85th Street, initially believed to have been struck by a vehicle. However, the Washington State Patrol quickly determined that he had been shot. Hours later, the body of Myion Coleman was found in a nearby ditch off the 85th Street onramp, also a victim of gunfire. The Medical Examiner’s office confirmed Coleman died from multiple gunshot wounds, establishing a grim connection between the two fatalities.
The circumstances surrounding their deaths are shrouded in mystery, with investigators yet to determine whether the teens were shot on the freeway or elsewhere before their bodies were left in such a visible, yet desolate, location. The close bond shared between Jahaz and Myion, described by family members as inseparable, adds an additional layer of tragedy to their untimely deaths.
In the wake of this devastating event, the community has come together to support the grieving families through GoFundMe campaigns, aiming to alleviate the financial burden of funeral expenses and counseling services. For Myion Coleman, a campaign has been set up to support his mother, Myisha, as she navigates through this unimaginable loss with “courage and grace.” The campaign seeks to provide financial relief for funeral costs and other immediate needs as she begins the healing process.
Similarly, a GoFundMe page for Jahaz Phillips has been created to honor his memory and support his family in arranging a proper homegoing service. Described as “beyond smart & charismatic,” Jahaz’s loss is felt deeply by those who knew him. The campaign also aims to lay Jahaz to rest alongside his mother, Deloris Cain, who passed away in December of 2020, fulfilling a wish to reunite mother and son.
These crowdfunding efforts reflect the community’s solidarity and compassion in times of profound grief, emphasizing the collective responsibility to support one another. As investigations continue, the families of Jahaz Phillips and Myion Coleman, along with their community, hold onto hope for justice and answers to the senseless violence that took these young lives too soon.
The tragedies of Jahaz and Myion serve as a somber reminder of the urgent need to address gun violence, particularly its impact on the youth. Their memories, cherished by those who knew and loved them, will inspire ongoing efforts to create a safer, more peaceful community where such losses are no longer a grim reality.
