News

Actions

Prayer service held for victim of domestic violence

Posted at 11:05 PM, Jan 31, 2016
and last updated 2016-01-31 23:05:48-05

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. — Melissa Moore's family says there isn't a day that goes by they don't think of her. According to investigators, Moore was shot and killed by her long-time boyfriend, Jermaine Cooper last November.

A prayer service was held Sunday where friends, family members, and victims of domestic abuse gathered in her memory.

"I think of Melissa every day and think about her last words," said Sue Brand, Moore's aunt. "What was hard for me is knowing that was right here and knowing that her last words were 'Oh my God.'"

"This place does not want to be known as where Melissa Moore was violently killed but more of a place where people came and supported her and remembered her life," said Cathy Pearce, who reached out to Moore's family members to organize Sunday's event. "One of the ideas we had was to bring healing to domestic violence by bringing attention the healing waters and particularly to Melissa Moore."

Moore was shot and killed Nov. 6, 2015, in the street near Knapp Street and Truxton Avenue NE. Investigators say a city street sweeping crew called 911 after witnessing part of the incident. Moore was pronounced dead after officials arrived on scene.

Family members said Sunday's prayer service helped bring closure to a tragic event.

"I think I can drive past here and not cry every time," said Sandy Hogson, Moore's aunt.

"We hope to continue this. This is not a one time thing, we hope this continues," said Pearce.

A Go Fund Me page has been created to assist the two children left behind by Moore's death.