On March 12, 2024, the community of Ceres, California, gathered at Whitmore Park to honor the life of 14-year-old Amari Peterson, who was tragically killed in a mass shooting in nearby Stockton less than two weeks prior. The vigil, organized by the Ceres Jr. Bulldogs football league—a team that Peterson played for—served as a poignant reminder of the impact of violence on young lives.
Emotional Tributes and Remembrances
As the sun set, dozens of attendees lit candles, shared memories, and prayed together, overcoming their grief in a show of solidarity. Emotions ran high during the evening, with many hugging each other in tears while reflecting on the loss of a promising young athlete. Peterson, affectionately known as “Ferari Mari,” was remembered not only for his skills on the football field but also for his vibrant spirit.
Former coaches, visibly shaken, shared their memories of Amari. Umar Muriset, one of the coaches, expressed his heartbreak, stating, “This tragic man is this messed up. He was a wonderful kid. Special kid, different, great athlete.” Joe Estrada, the coach who organized the vigil, highlighted the profound loss felt by the community. “Any time a child loses his life to violence, whether he’s with our team or not, it hurts because he doesn’t have the opportunity to go to high school or live his life,” Estrada said.
Calls for Change and Community Support
The vigil featured a slideshow showcasing Amari’s life, allowing attendees to reflect on the joy he brought to those around him. The atmosphere was filled with calls for action and justice, as community leaders emphasized the need for change. Estrada urged everyone to come together, stating, “We need to put the guns down and help each other and love each other.”
In memory of Amari, the Ceres Jr. Bulldogs are actively raising funds to support his family during this challenging time. Additionally, the team plans to honor his legacy by featuring his jersey number, 14, on the uniforms for the upcoming season. This initiative aims to ensure that Amari’s spirit and contributions to the community are never forgotten.
The tragedy that struck Ceres has sparked discussions about youth violence and the urgent need for community engagement. As residents continue to mourn the loss of Amari Peterson, they remain committed to fostering a safer environment for the youth of their community.
