Sacramento, California — Family and friends of Colby Tevis gathered on Sunday to honor his memory, marking the one-year anniversary of his tragic death during a midtown shooting. Tevis, who was just 22 years old and celebrating his twin sister’s birthday at the time, was shot on J Street, becoming one of several victims of gun violence that summer weekend.
“He was an incredible person, and his loss has left a void that cannot be filled,” said Jamie Tevis-Littlejohn, Colby’s aunt. “It’s heartbreaking that someone so young was taken from us so senselessly.” The gathering served not only as a remembrance but also as a call to action against the rising tide of gun violence.
In the aftermath of the shooting, the city experienced a surge in violence, with Tevis among five deaths reported over that weekend, including a 12-year-old boy. This spate of incidents prompted then-Mayor Darryl Steinberg to urge collaboration among city, county, and school officials to find effective solutions to curb violence and protect the community.
As the legal proceedings continue, Tevis-Littlejohn reflects on the slow pursuit of justice for her family. Nearly a month after the shooting, an arrest was made, but the grief remains palpable. “It feels like time stands still when you’re waiting for accountability,” she said. This year has seen more than 100 shootings in Sacramento through August, a stark reminder of the ongoing crisis that claimed 133 gunshot victims in the city last year, an improvement from 163 in 2022.
The emotional toll on families affected by such violence is immense and enduring. “Every day is a struggle,” Tevis-Littlejohn admitted. “I carry his memory with me, and even though I go through counseling, our family remains a source of strength for each other.”
To honor Colby’s legacy, San Jose State awarded him a posthumous degree, celebrating his academic aspirations. Additionally, Inderkum High School has established a scholarship in his name, ensuring that his memory will inspire future generations.
Community members hope that these tributes will not only keep Colby’s spirit alive but also serve as a catalyst for change, encouraging dialogue about gun safety and prevention measures. As they remember a life cut short, the Tevis family continues to advocate for a community free from the grip of gun violence.