A vigil took place Monday night at Showalter Fountain to honor Kemontie Johnson, who was shot and killed early Sunday morning at an off-campus party.
He was 21.
The shooting happened at a Halloween party called “A Nightmare in B-Town” put on by IU’s chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi. Two other men were shot, and one of them remains in massively critical condition.
No arrests have been made as of Monday.
Around 300 people gathered to light candles, say prayers and remember Johnson. They lined the rim of the fountain, packed its stairs and spilled out into the street.
One man hummed hymns to himself as he waited for the vigil to begin.
“I sing the gospel when I’m nervous,” he said.
Candles of all sizes were passed out. One woman began burning sage. A woman led the crowd in a rendition of “Amazing Grace”.
Around 10 people took turns speaking about Johnson and what he meant to them.
The IDS was asked not to publish those comments and will respect those wishes.
Before the crowd dispersed, IU Provost Lauren Robel spoke.
“I know the power and the strength of the people standing here tonight,” she said. “I know you will get through this.”
