‘He was too good for this world’: Family mourns 3-year-old boy killed at a birthday party
When Rylo Yancy was born, his grandfather thought he was “the smartest little boy in the world.”
Rylo’s 3-year-old life was cut short Sunday when he was killed in a drive-by shooting at a child’s birthday party at Riverland Park & Pool in Fort Lauderdale.
“Rylo was one of a kind,” said Jerrold Pough, 48. “He was just 3, and he was so smart you wouldn’t believe it. He started talking at 9 months old.”
Rylo was attending his relative’s Sesame Street-themed birthday party when gunfire erupted around 4:30 p.m. Police have since located one of the vehicles involved, but have made no arrests. Witnesses described a chaotic and desperate scene, with frantic 911 calls capturing the panic as callers pleaded for an ambulance.
Rylo’s death follows another incident of gun violence involving a child in Fort Lauderdale. Earlier in July, 28-year-old Tiarra Holliday was killed in a drive-by shooting in Fort Lauderdale and her 2-year-old son was seriously injured.
Fort Lauderdale Mayor Dean Trantalis urged anyone with information on either case to come forward at a press conference Wednesday morning at Riverland Park & Pool, 950 SW 27th Ave.
“If we do not stand together, folks, we will all fail,” said Trantalis.
Fort Lauderdale Police Chief Bill Schultz said they are following all leads but pleaded for community assistance. Broward Crimestoppers is offering $10,000 for information that could lead to an arrest.
“Everything is a possibility and is open at this point because all the investigations are ongoing,” he said. “If you know anything, please do not be afraid to come forward.”
Rylo’s family is making funeral arrangements, and Pough noted that his employer, Forts Services, will assist with the funeral expenses.
“He brought peace and happiness to a household that was upside down,” said Pough. “Even now, he’s still bringing us together. God knew he was too good for this world.
“He was the most amazing baby.”
