Police arrest two in connection with Hunt slaying

By: TOM PFINGSTEN - Staff Writer | Friday, March 23, 2007 11:57 PM PDT

OCEANSIDE ---- Two young men, Jonathan Johnson, 20, of Vista, and Dominic Porter, 21, of Oceanside, were arrested early Friday morning and booked into the Vista Detention Facility for the shooting death of Kenya Hunt, authorities said, while friends of the victim gathered to remember him Friday night.

Hunt, 34, an Oceanside High School graduate and former minor league baseball player, was fatally shot Thursday in his driveway in the 4700 block of Lofty Grove Drive.

"No information regarding the motive is being released," Oceanside police Sgt. Leonard Mata said Friday, declining to give a timeline for the investigation.

The shooting happened about 10 a.m. in the neighborhood between North and Olive avenues. Police detained and handcuffed two men ---- Johnson and Porter ---- nearby at Oceanside Boulevard and Temple Heights Drive.

Friday evening, about 25 people gathered in front of Hunt's Oceanside house to pray for him and to remember him. His cousin, Caryn Black, brought a white wooden cross with his name on it, red roses and tealights. The cross was planted in his lawn and bouquets of flowers and other religious candles were placed in front of it.

"He didn't deserve this. He just didn't deserve this," she said.

Greg Stephens, a family friend, said that the shooting did not make any sense. He said some people were making stereotypical assumptions about Hunt, but he wanted them to know that Hunt was not into drugs or gangs.

He said Hunt was a hard worker and was dedicated to his 5-year-old son, K.J., and that he was engaged to be married. Stephens said Hunt was also a T-ball coach with him and was really great with children.

"Him and his son were best friends," Stephens said.

His friends said Hunt had been shot weeks earlier on February 14, but no one could say why he had been targeted. Mata said two men were wounded in a drive-by shooting in the neighborhood on that day ---- one of whom fit Hunt's profile ---- but wouldn't confirm that Hunt was one of the victims.

It was unclear whether the February incident was related to Thursday's attack.

Stephens said Hunt would not talk about the earlier shooting.

"How anyone could hate this guy, I don't know," he said. "I don't know of anybody that ever met him that didn't like him."

Next-door neighbor Henry Cortez said Hunt wanted to move out of the neighborhood because he no longer felt safe at his home.

"I myself only knew him as a good person," Cortez said. "It's kind of hard to take."

Johnson and Porter were booked for murder and conspiracy to commit murder, according to the release.

When police arrived at the scene Thursday, they said they found Hunt lying on the sidewalk in front of his house with at least one gunshot wound. He was transported to Scripps trauma center where he was pronounced dead, according to authorities.

Hunt was approached by two masked suspects on foot while he stood in front of his home, police said. At least one man opened fire, according to police. The men then fled the area on foot, authorities said.

Hunt played baseball for several minor league teams, including the Spokane Indians, one of the San Diego Padres' minor league teams.

Most recently, he had been working for a moving company with a contract at Camp Pendleton, according to a former high school coach.

Staff writer Yvette Urrea contributed to this report. Contact staff writer Tom Pfingsten at (760) 731-5799 or tpfingsten@nctimes.com.

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Cowards!! wrote on Mar 23, 2007 1:23 PM:I truely hope that justice will be served. The system has let me down in the past, i pray to God that these two will get the punishment they deserve. Kenya's life was to precious to be taken so soon. Kenya my heart and prayers are with you and your family. I miss you. Your smile will always play in my mind. You will never be forgotten.....Our memories I will forever cherish.

GOD IS GOOD wrote on Mar 23, 2007 2:02 PM:GREATER IS HE (GOD) THAN HE THAT IS IN THE WORLD !!!!! GOD HAS THE FINAL SAY...HE IS THE MOST HIGH...AND HIS MERCY ENDURES FOREVER...JUSTICE HAS BEEN SERVED..AMEN....RIP YANNI

Lisa wrote on Mar 23, 2007 2:13 PM:HOW SAD! Now what did anyone get out of this? A great person is gone... It is senseless. My condolenses to the family and friends of Kenya Hunt, especially the mother and his child. Now this child will grow up not having much memories of his father. ...

Forever in my Heart wrote on Mar 23, 2007 2:19 PM:Young, dumb, cowards is what you are to take an innocent son, brother and FATHER's life. As Yanni told me, "Sis, they will get what they deserve." I see he was right. Yanni, I love big bro! You will be missed dearly.

Justice or Just us? wrote on Mar 23, 2007 2:34 PM:May justice prevail for the animals that decided to judge Kenya. Where were the police? Why didn't they investigate this? How does this continue to plague the city of Oceanside, is it just us or is something to keep the system of justice turning? Outraged by this act I pay my repsect to his loved ones and all who knew this man. GOD SAVE OCEANSIDE by for Kenya....

long time friend wrote on Mar 23, 2007 2:57 PM:You will be missed Kenya! May God be the family during this HUGE loss.

To Justice or... wrote on Mar 23, 2007 3:05 PM:I am confused by your post. Did you miss the entire portion of the article that says OPD has the two suspects in custody? I don't understand what you mean by, "Where were the police?" Did you want them sitting on Mr. Hunt's driveway, anticipating this homicide? I hope you want to pay a lot more in taxes because that would take A LOT more police men and women. By the way, my guess is since they have these two individuals in custody, OPD probably is investigating this incident at this very moment. Why don't you let the cops continue to do their job and merely state your condolences for the family at this time?

A Dear Friend wrote on Mar 23, 2007 3:21 PM:R.I.P Brahda. You will be missed.

Jeanie wrote on Mar 23, 2007 3:42 PM:Kenya was a wonderful, caring person and it is not fair what has happened to him. Our family knew him from softball as he played on a team with my son's. I hope that justice finds it's way to punish the ones who did this. Rest in peace friend.

A old friend wrote on Mar 23, 2007 4:08 PM:Though it has been years since I have seen him, I always continued to think about him. My prayers are with his family. I am so sorry for your loss. To his child who will have to grow up without a father, just know he will always be with you. He will be your guardian Angel.

Baseball friend wrote on Mar 23, 2007 4:13 PM:What a horrible thing to happen to a great guy. Miss seeing you around the baseball field. My best to the family.

the princess wrote on Mar 23, 2007 4:32 PM:All of you who wrote that there were a lot of drugs in that corner of lofty grove...WAKE UP! You pathetic people always wanna say the same B.S. When it comes to a black man getting shot! He's black, so it's because of gang's or drugs? The truth is were all sick of blaming drugs. It all comes down to jealous guys that wanted yanni's hummer, benz, and life. GET A JOB YOU ... Then you can have nice things and live life out of jail. EVER THOUGHT OF THAT??????????? well R.I.P kenya. ...

Uknown wrote on Mar 23, 2007 4:46 PM:The police should have been there BEFORE this second shooting, they should have taken things more seriously the first time. Why do people get shot for such meaningless reasons in oceanside? I see it a lot more than anyone should ever have to see in their hometown. Yanni, I know you will be missed terribly in this household. Although I am not a religious person, I am still praying for his young child, and for his mother to get through this. RIP. Your smile and strong aura of positive energy will be missed. I only wish I would have gotten to know Kenya better, I wish he could have been a bigger part of our lives.

Friend wrote on Mar 23, 2007 5:23 PM:Yanni, may u rest in peace and may your son grow up to be a wonderful man like you. Keep smiling....everyone smiles with you.

Squeak wrote on Mar 23, 2007 5:33 PM:First of all my wishes go out to the family of Kenya Hunt.As far as you go Yanni No words can express what it like to know that I wont be able to see your bright smile in the darkness of hate that has clouded this city or what it must feel like for Ms.Linda or Mr. Charles to lose a son. Nor can we replace the emptyness now present in the life of his daughter.Not only will you be missed big brother you will be remembered.Its a sad day in the O.

Not Enough Police- wrote on Mar 23, 2007 5:47 PM:Wake up people there are not enough police in Oceanside. How often do you see a patrol car patrolling in you neighborhood. In the last five years I can honestly say I have seen OPD two times driving past my house. Two times in five years! I am retired and watch my street most of the day and part of the evening. I mean no disrepect to OPD, just observing.

Babe wrote on Mar 23, 2007 6:15 PM:Yanni was one of the finest men I have ever known. He played a very big part in my life and I will remember him with love forever. I know how much he loved his mom and his son was the light of his life. He worked very hard for them. My heart goes out to his family. You do not grieve for him alone. His memory will be forever in my heart.

Jessica wrote on Mar 23, 2007 6:48 PM:I hope that they are the right suspects that will pay for what has been done to this family!!!!! These cowards have no right to take a mans life, and this selfish act has torn holes in all of our hearts!!! We will miss you kenya, always!!!

Ephesians 4 wrote on Mar 23, 2007 9:44 PM:You were taken so soon and unexpectedly. My heart goes out to the family and friends that will miss Kenya. God has called him home and even though we'll miss him, he is in good hands. Until we all meet again. Many Blessings and prayers to the family.

stink wrote on Mar 24, 2007 12:35 AM:baby I miss you so much, I cant believe this has happened to such a beautiful person! I know how much you loved your linda and kj. Your in my heart & mind forever. 10 yrs of friendship and some jealious idoits took you away from me. You didn't deserve what you got!I will always love you, your stink!

An Acquaintance wrote on Mar 24, 2007 1:38 AM:Can't believe it, barely accept it, want to forget it but can't. Peace be still in the hearts of those suffering by the viscous hands of man!

Your babygirl, wrote on Mar 24, 2007 6:26 AM:I keep coming back and reading all these comments. These people on here talking mess is nothing new to my babe. I just want to let everyone know what a wonderful man Kenya really is. I would talk with him morning 8:30 sharp. He always had a positive word. This man helped me when my son would act up and always have the right thing to say to him. He took him under his wing knowing his father was nowhere around. They had a very special bond that has been taken from my son and me. These people on here saying foolish things is crazy. He was a successful strong black man that worked hard everyday. I just remember him getting happy about his next big job. Always on the go up and ready for work at 5:00 am. Yeah right sounds like a gang banger or drug dealer to me. Get a grip people he was one of the best people in my life that I look up to. A huge void is in my heart and I feel the pain will never go away. What a huge loss to not only me and my kids but everyone. Kenya just tried to make life better for those who wanted better for themselves. Helping people by giving them a second chance when nobody else would hire them for a job dosen't make him a bad person. He was a leader and role model for this community. All you that have any negative to say about my babe need to find jesus. Open your eyes we have lost a great man. I love you baby and you will never be forgotten. You and KJ are always in my heart. I don't know when this will stop hurting but I look forward to the day when I walk thru those gates and your standing there to hold me again. I miss you so much. I love you.

More police? wrote on Mar 24, 2007 7:21 AM:My condolences to the family regarding this loss. This appeared to be a planned cowardly execution. Not much the police can do about that unless you expect them to be everywhere all the time. That just simply does not happen anywhere, except maybe for police states. OPD does a good job, and one must know that no one can be everywhere, everytime. Those who know what's going on should get involved and contact the police with their information.

Lovergirl wrote on Mar 24, 2007 8:28 AM:I know I was your favorite babe and u were my man. I will miss u always. May the people who did this go to hell.

RG(hava's bud) wrote on Mar 24, 2007 9:28 AM:Kenya was a great guy and treated everyone fairly. I was not a real close friend of Kenya but I knew him from around the neighborhood and playing softball in Vista and Oceanside. He played on teams with my best friend Scott from time too time. I had the pleasure of spending time with Kenya and getting to know him a little while hanging out at Scotts when we were all in our early 20's. He was allways so kind hearted and smiling. I never once heard him be hateful or discourging in fact he wanted everyone to be successful and give it their best at sports and life. It really saddens me to know he is gone. I send my condolences to his family. I can only hope his murders meat their makers and the devil that sent them goes to hell as well. Respectfully, RG

Danielle wrote on Mar 24, 2007 10:06 AM:just wanted to say a few words that yanni had said to me...yanni and i have been friends for about 19 years he meant alot to me on the holidays we always called one another.my friend shyanne came over after i told her what had happend to him and she reminded me of this.. it was new years eve this year we were on the phone talking about how are lives have changed and he was so proud of me for cleaning up my life he had said to me to always be careful because there will always be someone out there who hates on you for doing better then they are we also talked about how death had almost approached him once before years ago and one thing that suck in my mind is that he told me that he would want a celebration if and when it was his time so i think im gonna stop crying now and grant his wishes and start the celebration for now he is peace ...RIP Yanni

A Good Friend wrote on Mar 24, 2007 10:15 AM:To Kenyas Fiance, son ,mother and family our hearts go out to you ..remember Hes in a good place now

GFN wrote on Mar 24, 2007 10:31 AM:He was shot last month also? That's really strange.

my 2 cents wrote on Mar 24, 2007 11:40 AM:first of all my heart goes to the family, my God give you the peace to deal with your lose.. read all of the post, why are some of you saying OPD should have been there? patrol more? come on people, we are the eyes, ears of Oceanside!! the police can not be every where. if we see some thing wromg report it, get invloved, I think someone here said that. get out of your homes and know your neighbors, even the ones you do not like.... the main thing is GET INVOLVED!!! then maybe we all can have a safer Oceanside...

--Watch Out for Each Other wrote on Mar 24, 2007 1:35 PM:When is the violence in O'side going to stop? What is the OPD doing about it? What is the City Manager and City Council doing about it? We have to watch out for each other and report anything suspicious in our neighborhoods. Go to council meetings, get involved and make our elected official accountable!

Steve S wrote on Mar 24, 2007 1:48 PM:I knew Kenya when he was a little boy at the Boys Club. I then worked with him a few years ago. Kenya grew up to be a great man, always there to lend a hand. We often talked about God, sports,and cars. His favorite subject was his son, he loved him with all of his heart and soul. I know Kenya is with his Lord and savior, and he would want us all to be strong and go on. Kenya, you will be missed, but never forgotten. Gods speed.

poem wrote on Mar 24, 2007 2:36 PM:Category: Life Want You To Know A brief moment of darkness was all that I knew, before Heaven's Gate came into my view. Loved ones and friends I had missed for many years, welcomed me with open arms and many happy tears. All the hurt, fear and pain that I have ever known, is gone from my life, I am finally home. I gazed upon the Lord's sweet smiling face, and for the first time in my life I knew and felt His grace. I know that you miss me, but please dry your eyes. I will always be watching and loving you from my home in the sky. A cool breeze on your face, a touch of light rain, I will send as a reminder that we will be reunited again. Life on earth is but one brief moment in time, I am finally home, Eternity is mine.

Friend wrote on Mar 24, 2007 2:49 PM:I don't believe John commited this act. I know John and he is not a punk. Only punks do those cowardly things. Real men like himself talk it out and don't lead to violence.

Kayla wrote on Mar 24, 2007 3:13 PM:I WOULD LIKE TO THANK EVERYONE WHO CAME OUT TO THE VIGIL LAST NIGHT. MY HEART & PRAYERS ARE WITH HIS FAMILY...DANIEL...I'M GLAD YOU SENT THE COMMENT GURL...THOSE OF US WHO TRUELY KNOW KENYA...LET'S DO WHAT HE WANTS...LETS CELEBRATE!!!ONE LOVE!!!

upset wrote on Mar 24, 2007 4:21 PM:not to mention all the kids that were in lock down at the schools, and the parents that have to reasure them that everything is ok now.....so sorry for the loss!!!!!!!

Yanni's Mom and Family Says wrote on Mar 24, 2007 6:39 PM:First Thank You...EVERYONE.....who posted comments here. As my family and I sit and read all the wonderful comments it gives our HEARTS much peace and joy. You know, we really never knew what an impact Kenya had on everyone's life he touched or who crossed his path. We truly appreciate the prayers and willingness to help out in this time of need.

God Bless You Kenya wrote on Mar 24, 2007 7:21 PM:Kenya was a good friend of our family, he went to school with my nephew, and was very well liked by everyone who knew him. I am very sadden by his death, its a shock to me and my family. But, he is in a better place now, with the lord is now watching after him. My condolenses to his family, and little boy.

In Gods hands now wrote on Mar 24, 2007 7:47 PM:Kenya, you are in the hands of the lord now, and will forever be remembered by those who knew you, and knew where your heart was. You are in a much better place.

family friend wrote on Mar 24, 2007 7:48 PM:My prays go out to his child, his mom and his fiance. He loved you all more then life. Yanni you will be so missed.

kenny (your mom) wrote on Mar 24, 2007 7:51 PM:I just want to let everyone who has put a input on this web page concerning my baby, that I really and truly appreciate your thoghts and prayers. I don't even know where to begin to let you know how heavy my heart is. I just want to once again thank you all for your kind and thoughtful words. THANK YOU KENYA'S YONNIE MOTHER

Family childhood friend wrote on Mar 24, 2007 7:51 PM:His soon to be wife Im sorry for your loss he loved you and dont listen to all these girls on here you were his world.He loved you so very much. You are family always.

KATHY wrote on Mar 24, 2007 8:06 PM:GOD WHAT A TERRIBLE LOSS . WHY IS IT THAT THE WRONG PEOPLE ARE ALWAYS TAKEN SO YOUNG AND THE CREEPS ARE LEFT HERE WITH US. THATS OK YANNI THEIR JUST REWARD WILL COME. I HAD ONLY KNEW U FOR A FEW BUT UR THE GREATEST YOUNG MAN I KNEW, CARING FATHER AND LOVIG SON AND GOOD FRIEND THATS HOW I WILL REMEMBER U. AND THE SMILE OH THE SMILE. R. I P AND I WILL TRULY MISS U

KATHY wrote on Mar 24, 2007 8:10 PM:THIS IS TO YANNI;S MOM AND FAMILY, AND SON. THANK U YESS THANK U FOR ALLOWING ME THE CHANCE TO KNOW YANNI, HE WAS A GREAT YOUNG MAN, AND EVEN THOUGH I DONT KNOW U I WOULD WALK UP TO U AND HUG U ,I KNOW ITS A TERRIBLE LOSS TO LOOSE A CHILD I HAVE DONE SO. AGAIN THANK U FOR LETTING ME KNOW HIM, YOUR A GREAT MOM AND A GREAT FAMILY .. TAKE CARE LOVE U .

Younique (Juanita) NYC wrote on Mar 24, 2007 10:12 PM:Ms. Linda My deepest condolences to you & your family. I want 2 say that U should be extra super proud of yourself 4 doing such a Great Job raising your son (Yanni). He turned out to be a FINE young man. He was a good father and kind person. I dont personally know you but I have spoken to you from NY on the phone several times when Yanni was hurt back in 2001. I know that U r a strong woman, mother and child of God. He will get U through this. Yanni, I'm sure has been right by your side & his son's & hasn't gone far. His body may not be here but his presence, spirit, memories & face will 4ever linger in our heads and he now will protect you's. Your son made an impact on many lives. Although he may have had a few woman who think he was their baby (lol)he was, is & always will be your baby 1st. He is an Angel who has moved to a higher, safer & better place. I'm sure he's in Heaven right now trying 2 fix something (lol). Please, although it hurts try not to be saddened. Rejoice that his memory lives on, Rejoice that those punks are in custody and his death didnt go unsolved, Rejoice because we know now he is in a better place and wont ever be hurt again. Yanni also left his pride & joy (son) behind. U will always have him 2 remind u of, love, cherish & nourish. I pray that U & your family have peace & comfort and can move on. Again Thank U 4 giving us a chance into Yanni's world however any of us knew him whether we played softball w/him, football, knew him from the clubs, the streets, smoked with him, saw him driving by, went 2 school with him, had a relationship with him, did business with him, it all doesn't matter. I'm sure we r all grateful that he existed in our lives in some way, shape or form. He will Never B 4gotten. U have done an Excellent & Awesome Job and now I'm sure U will do the same with your grandson. I'm sorry that U had 2 go through this again. My prayers are with U and I hope U feel better soon. RIP Yanni honey and We will miss U tremendously!

to Neda wrote on Mar 25, 2007 1:17 AM:I know you are grieving a huge loss and no words can express how I feel for what you are going through! Know that you were his true love you were there with him and you help raise that beautiful boy along side him! You and only you! Such a tragedy and you will be in my prayers! Kenya needs your strength now than ever to be there for kj! He will need mommy even more! Much love to you and all the family! We will get through this!

A Good Friend wrote on Mar 25, 2007 12:10 PM:WOW. What a special man he was! To his family & fiance, I am so sorry for your loss. May you always find comfort in his memory. I know that I will. I don't think that anyone has ever touched my life in the way that he has. Losing him has left an empty spot in my heart and I will remember him forever. I too will rejoice in his memory. He did not like it when I was sad and I will get past this and be happy for having had his influence in my life if only for a short time. Rest in peace. Save a place for me near you in Heaven.

Special wrote on Mar 25, 2007 12:54 PM:The last time I saw your handsome face....we had harsh words for eachother. How I wish to take them back. I just wanted you to be...honest. Everyone says sweet things about you. But I know you were human, troubled and scared. You will always remain in my special place, under the moon, I will go there to visit you. I am so very sorry.

KenB. wrote on Mar 25, 2007 2:51 PM:I only knew Kenya from the adult Baseball League. But he was so full of life, it was hard to not laugh when he was around you. I pray for his young son and his family. I'm going to miss you out on the field Big Man. It looks like you touched alot of people in a positive way. May you rest in peace.

baseball buddy wrote on Mar 25, 2007 3:38 PM:Neda,and his mom, and KJ Im so sorry for your loss he loved you 3 so much more then anything. You were all is world he worked so hard to make sure you were all happy. God Bless you all

RODGE/JESSI/SHAW wrote on Mar 25, 2007 6:00 PM:KENNY WAS A GREAT PART OF MY FAMILY HE WILL REALLY BE MISSED WITH A GREAT SMILE FOR A GREAT PERSON ALL I HAVE TO SAY IS LINDA YOU DID A GREAT JOB!!!!WE ARE HERE FOR YOU!!!!

v.b. wrote on Mar 26, 2007 7:36 AM:I would like to express my condolences to kenya's family. I knew kenya from way back in the early 90's while attending oceanside high. I will always remember how he would make me laugh when i was going through a hard time with my living situation. he would bag on me and i'd return the favor. all in all he would call me his homegirl.. even years after when i'd run into him he'd give me a hug and say what's up where you been keep doing you. He knew my brothers well and when they had a problem with others around if he was there he would help. This is a sad situation which pains my heart that we as humans can't get along. Males calling themselves men yet are committing acts upon others as if they have complete authority to do so. I really hope that justice is served. Kenya will always be remembered for his wonderful personality and spirit... To his mother I can't say that I know what you are going through as far as loosing your son but i do share your pain as i know how it is loosing a loved one i lost my father to violence at a early age... As far as those on here writing negative. Here something for thought... If this was to have happened to you or your loved one know matter what they were doing pos-neg how would you feel.. If you don't have anything nice to say or you can't help out in this situation then shut your face... as no one deserves to be taken from this earth in this mannerism.. it was a cowardly act... and for those who plotted this act if the law does'nt get you the good lord will... kenya R.I.P. much loves

class of 1990 wrote on Mar 26, 2007 9:17 AM:our thoughts and prayers are with kenya and his family. kenya was a talented and vibrant kid who grew into a better man. we will miss you!!

jennifer wrote on Mar 26, 2007 10:20 AM:Kenya was a good man and anyone who says different never knew him. I met him only once but we had some mutual friends. I am appalled that people would make such comments about him. He changed so many peoples lives in the short period of time that he was on this earth. That is so apparent by reading all these comments. But it is also obvious that many people were jealous and envious of him. Let Kenya go in peace, with no more negative comments. Think of his mother and son and other family members before you write with hate. RIP Kenya

Stephanie wrote on Mar 26, 2007 11:39 AM:I just want to send my prayers to little K.J. and the rest of Kenya's family. I was so saddened to hear that such a wonderful man who only wanted to help people was taken from us way too soon. I miss him every day and although each day it gets a little easier I still cry any time I think of him and what they horrible people did to him. Kenya, I will always love and miss you and I will continue to remember the good times that we had together. You will always live on in my heart. RIP

Sincee wrote on Mar 26, 2007 1:20 PM:Linda, Moya e-mailed me this horrible news. I just got off the phone with TKO and I want you to know your in my thoughts and prayers. Much love to you, God will get you through this. Last week I was just using Kenyon as an example to encourage my son to join the baseball team. I loved to watch him play back in the day. He will be missed. God bless you

DJP wrote on Mar 26, 2007 2:41 PM:THANK YOU ONE AND AND ALL FOR THE BEAUTIFUL WORDS AND EXPRESSIONS FOR THE IMPACT OUR NEPHEW HAD YOUR INDIVIUAL LIFES. THIS IS MOST ENCOURAGING. LOVE U KENYON. YANNI.

A Friend wrote on Mar 26, 2007 7:50 PM:Why? I just dont understand. Kenya was such a nice man, with a big heart and full of life. Netta and KJ you are in my thoughts and prayers. RIP sweet Kenya, You will be missed!

Mootie wrote on Mar 27, 2007 9:31 AM:To my sister Ashonda, Momma Linda, Neda, and the rest of the family, I am sooo sorry for your loss. I grieve for you all. It hurts me to see you all in so much pain. I wish that I could take it away. I just want you all to know that God is the only one that can ease the hurt you are feeling. Lean on Him in your time of need, and He will take care of you. I love you all, and you will forever be in my prayers. As for you Kenya, I know that we did not get to know each other that well, but because your sister is my sister, you are obvisously family too. I love you just as much and will always remember your big smile. May you rest in peace.

im so sorry for your loss.. wrote on Mar 27, 2007 4:23 PM:this is so sad, first off to the family of kenya.. i send you my condolences and prayers and if you truely put your faith in Gods hands you will prevail to be hated on so much for doing so good.. thats the harsh world of reality we live in.. HATERS! kinda like the haters leaving these comments, neda i dont even know you but i feel for you all these wanna be so called his baby girls aint got nothing on you.. lol lil do they know, just keep your head up for lil kj.. and put faith in God!!

Shonda wrote on Mar 27, 2007 5:28 PM:To Kenya's Mom, Children and his Significant Other: I want to say how sad I am to hear the news. I went to O'side High with Kenya (Class of 90). He and I were crowned the "Class Clowns" our senior year. All I can remember is his cheesy grin. (and that curl:) He and I were always into something, clowning, making people laugh. May God bless you all and know I send my love and wish you comfort in your loss and grief.

A_25 wrote on Mar 27, 2007 6:39 PM:I only knew Kenya for a short period of time. He was a kind, and generous man. I was visiting Cali last year from ATL, and ran into him at a restaurant. It is sad that another man can get jealous when a man is doing something with his life. He was determind to make sure that he had for his child and his family. It's time for us as a whole to come together. Be proud when an African American man is succeeding in life instead of having hate in your heart. People.....it's time to be on one accord, and have Love for your brother and sister in society. Kenya. May you Rest in Peace. Sleep in Peace, you don't have to worry about the world down here. Rest........To the family. You're in my prayers. May you all be blessed.

college friend wrote on Mar 28, 2007 8:53 PM:I knew Kenya from Master's, he was my husbands roommate, and friend. He was everyone's friend. Kenya had a smile, and warmth, that we still talk about. I am sure he is playing ping pong in heaven.

Ronnie wrote on Mar 29, 2007 10:11 AM:I will never forget you..When I was overcoming a drug habit..."You"would tell me it'll be ok just hang in there.Find you a job and work for your's that way nobody can take it from you..and I've been cherishing your advice every since.You'll be missed dearly.

Victoria Rest~In~Love Kenya Hunt wrote on Mar 31, 2007 9:12 PM:My heart goes out to his entire family, especially his mother. I have children and my greatest fear is having one of my children taken from this earth before me. I know nothing can give you comfort in this time of grief; however believe in God's word and know that he is in a much better place, where no one can EVER hurt him again. I have known Kenya since high school....he had a smile that could light up any room...such a handsome man with a rich soul. His spirit will live on through all of your memories that you hold near and dear to your heart. I am really sad that I missed his wake and funeral...I showed up last night to lay a pink rose in his casket as one last sign of appreciation for his friendship and to say good bye...I was saddened to find out they closed it down early due to his families wishes....so I will go to your grave tomorrow and leave it on your grave and say my goodbyes at that time. You are never going to be forgotten Kenya because your name and memory will live on through your precious sons. May you Rest~In~Love for all Eternity. I will always keep you and your family in my Prayers.

LONG LOST FRIEND wrote on Mar 31, 2007 9:23 PM:FIRST AND FOREMOST,MY PRAYERS ARE WITH KENYA'S SON KJ, FAMILY, AND FRIENDS DEAR TO HIM. KENYA WILL BE MISSED GREATLY. HE BROUGHT NOTHING BUT GREAT JOY TO EACH AND EVERYONE OF OUR HEARTS. LIKE ONE SAYS IN A PREVIOUS QUOTE, KENYA SAID WHEN HIS TIME CAME, HE WANTED US TO CELEBRATE. YES, CELEBRATE LIFE...HIS LIFE. AND THAT, WE SHALL! MAY HIS COURAGE, LOVE, DEVOTION, AND ALL THAT HE HAS BLESSED US WITH, CONTINUE TO LIVE IN HIS SON KJ, AS HE GROWS UP TO KNOW THAT HE WAS BROUGHT INTO THIS WORLD BY A GOOD MAN.NOW IF WE'VE ALL LEARNED SOMETHING FROM KENYA, ITS THAT YOU HAVE TO LIVE LIFE TO THE FULLEST, AND BE HAPPY. REGARDLESS OF WHAT CRAZY THINGS PEOPLE MAY DO IN THIS WORLD. ONCE AGAIN, YANNI WILL BE MISSED GREATLY,MAY GOD BLESS US ALL! WE LOVE YOU KENYA!!

V loves Kenya wrote on Apr 2, 2007 4:28 PM:My prayers, and condolences go out to all of Kenya's family, especially to his mom. Losing Kenya, was the worst that has ever happened to me. I cry everyday, even though he'd like for me to be happy and, smile. I can't help it, it hurts. Losing Kenya has been a huge loss for me! I didn't know him for a long time. However, he touched my heart like no one else has. He is still and, forever will be very special to me. He was indeed a wonderful person. God needed an angel in heaven. I love Kenya with all of my heart. To Kenya's mom, I tell you to be strong, I keep you in my prayers. Kenya loved you so...much. He was so..proud to be your son, he always said wonderful things about you. To his son K.J., he lived for you, you were his love, pride, joy and happiness. He loved all of his family very much. Neda,I admire you so...much for raising his son, I know you love him with all of your heart. You're a lucky girl, many girls would have wanted to be in your place. God bless you all. I thank God for giving me the opportunity to have known you Kenya. I will miss you greatly. You're my angel. I will always, and forever love you!

Nicole wrote on Apr 3, 2007 11:16 AM:Why Kenya? I ask myself this over and over everyday. He was such a great man and didn't deserve this, and neither did his family. He will be in our hearts forever and always. RIP and we love ya Kenya!!!

Matt R wrote on Apr 3, 2007 1:54 PM:it is so sad to have such a good man be lost. he was a very good man and didn't do any harm to anyone, so why him? I ask myself that everyday and Kenya will never be out of my heart.

J.L wrote on Apr 4, 2007 11:00 PM:Kenya, You will always be in my heart. Missing You Baby.

Jean From Texas wrote wrote on Apr 11, 2007 9:48 AM:To the family of Kenya: I'm sending my condolences to Linda and the whole family Kenya was like a son to me and I was so sad to hear he was gone, I say this Kenya is with God now a much better place than where we are, so hole on because we will see him again,but for right now God has something better for him to do, so I say this to the family be strong and God will see you throught this. with Love and Blessing always Jean and the Turner Family:

how do I make peace with this? wrote on Apr 13, 2007 11:55 AM:As I drive the streets of Oceanside I still look for Yanni to drive past me wave and smile, flag me to pull over and give me a huge hug...I can hear him in my mind, "Whats up girl? Can we talk?" I have to remind myself that I will not see him anymore, he is not going to be driving past me smiling... this makes my heart sad... Yanni was an exceptional man, a good son, a phenomenal father, and an incredible ball player. My heart goes out to his family for their loss...especially his Mom, because I too have lost a son... What does bring me peace, is knowing my beautiful little boy in heaven now has a GREAT coach in heaven with him, someone to play with him and teach him how to play ball... When I got the phone call that Yanni was gone, the first thing I did was pray to God that he would send my son to find Yanni in heaven, so he could show Yanni around and help him find peace in his new home... I know from heaven Yanni is watching over us all, especially K.J... We must celebrate his life as we walk through the valley of the shadow of death...only then will we see the light....

Nicole wrote on Jun 2, 2007 12:04 AM:I'm still thinking about Kenya everyday, and I still don't know why anyone would want to do this to such a great man. I'm always expecting to see him drive by when I'm walking home from school, but in the back of my mind I know that he's not going to. It's really hard to believe he's really gone, even after 2 months. Neda and KJ, I am truly sorry, and I want you to know I am here for you both. He will never be forgotten. We luv ya Kenya!!!

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