It has been four years since Atatiana Jefferson tragically lost her life, shot by a Fort Worth police officer. As the anniversary approaches, her sister Ashley Carr, the surviving member of “The A Team,” seeks to make this commemoration more significant than ever. The goal is to celebrate Atatiana’s greatness and the love the community had for her.
Former Fort Worth Police Officer Aaron Dean fatally shot Jefferson during a welfare check at her home on October 12, 2019. The incident occurred when a neighbor called 911 after noticing her front door open in the early hours. Jefferson, enjoying video games with her nephew Zion, had opened the door for fresh air.
Zion, who witnessed the tragic event, lost his mother, Amber, earlier this year due to severe health complications. Ashley Carr, now the guardian of Amber’s children, strives to adjust while keeping Atatiana’s memory alive.
Fort Worth City leaders have declared every October 12 as “Tay Day” in honor of Jefferson. Part of Evans Avenue and the Hillside Community Center bear her name as well.
The parade will pass by a larger-than-life mural of Jefferson, symbolically facing downtown Fort Worth.
Ashley Carr sees the mural as a message for unity in the city. The celebration focuses on the future, especially for Zion, who will serve as the grand marshal for the Tay Day parade. Ashley Carr invites the public to “Pull up for Tay” to ensure that Atatiana Jefferson is never forgotten.
If you want to be in the parade, click here.
