Shaq Covers Funeral Costs For 11-Year-Old Killed In Car Crash

BYErika Marie2.2K Views
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Shaquille O'Neal

Shaq wanted to help a grieving family lay their 11-year-old son to rest following a car crash that resulted in his death and the loss of a 12-year-old.

These are strange, trying times we're living in. Millions of people are struggling from day-to-day and many families are consumed with trying to keep their households healthy and safe from COVID-19. Sadly, even with "Stay Home" orders in place, people still need to commute. In Lousiana, a tragic car crash resulted in the deaths of two children: 11-year-old Keshon Batiste and 12-year-old Trayvon Alexander. The two boys were passengers in the backseat of a vehicle when the person behind the wheel reportedly ran a stop sign, went through a ditch, and finally hit a tree. 

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It's reported that Trayvon's family was able to cover his funeral costs, but Keshon's loved ones were having a difficult time coming up with all of the money needed to lay him to rest. They launched a GoFundMe crowdfunding campaign and once someone told Shaq about the story, he reached out and paid the remaining balance of approximately $4K.

This isn't the first time Shaq has pulled a good deed such as this. Last year, Shaq covered the funeral costs for Jazmine Barnes, a seven-year-old who was shot and killed while riding in the car with her mother. Two men pulled alongside the vehicle and opened fire in a violent incident that was a tragic case of mistaken identity, according to police. 

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About The Author
Erika Marie is a seasoned journalist, editor, and ghostwriter who works predominantly in the fields of music, spirituality, mental health advocacy, and social activism. The Los Angeles editor, storyteller, and activist has been involved in the behind-the-scenes workings of the entertainment industry for nearly two decades. E.M. attempts to write stories that are compelling while remaining informative and respectful. She's an advocate of lyrical witticism & the power of the pen. Favorites: Motown, New Jack Swing, '90s R&B, Hip Hop, Indie Rock, & Punk; Funk, Soul, Harlem Renaissance Jazz greats, and artists who innovate, not simply replicate.