by Sylacauga, Alabama – The small community of Sylacauga is grieving the tragic loss of 17-year-old D’Marcus Riggins, a beloved high school basketball player who was fatally shot on the evening of Friday, August 8, 2025.
Shooting Leaves One Dead, Another Injured
According to the Sylacauga Police Department, officers responded to a report of shots fired late Friday night. When they arrived, they found two people suffering from gunshot wounds.
Police said D’Marcus had sustained critical injuries, and officers immediately performed CPR at the scene before he was rushed to the hospital. Sadly, he did not survive. The second victim sustained non-life-threatening injuries.
The shooting occurred shortly after D’Marcus had dropped someone off and was walking back to his car, according to his mother.
A Senior Year Cut Short
D’Marcus Riggins had just started his senior year at B.B. Comer Memorial High School. Known for his talent on the basketball court and his uplifting personality, he had big dreams for his future.
Earlier in the day, D’Marcus had been playing basketball with friends. At one point, he called his mother, Tykeshia Riggins, to ask if he could bring a friend home. An hour later, he was gone.
“He was only 17 years old — full of life, dreams, and love,” Tykeshia said. “I’ll never see my firstborn again… the one that made me a mother.”
In a heartbreaking statement, she described the moment she realized she had lost him: “That’s the most horrific feeling ever.”
Community in Mourning
According to People, The Talladega County Schools issued a statement saying they were “deeply saddened” by his passing and offered students a chance to gather for prayer in his memory.
Friends, family, and classmates have taken to social media to share photos, basketball highlights, and personal memories of D’Marcus. Many described him as a kind, respectful young man with a big heart.
A GoFundMe has been launched to help cover funeral expenses. Supporters have already started contributing, showing how deeply D’Marcus was loved by those around him.
Police Investigation Ongoing
As of Tuesday afternoon, police have not announced any arrests, suspects, or motive for the shooting. Authorities are urging the public to come forward with any tips that might help solve the case.
Crime Stoppers has offered a $1,000 reward for information leading to an arrest. Those with information can contact Investigations Sgt. Vinson at 256-391-4386, Central Alabama Crime Stoppers at 1-833-251-7867, or call 911 in an emergency.
Remembering a Life Taken Too Soon
For the Sylacauga community, D’Marcus’ death is not just another statistic—it’s a personal loss. He was a student, an athlete, a son, and a friend. His absence will be felt at school games, in classrooms, and in the hearts of all who knew him.
Tykeshia hopes for justice but also wants her son to be remembered for his character, not just the tragedy. “He would always tell me, ‘We gonna be alright, Mom… I got you.’”
The gym where D’Marcus once played will now serve as a place of remembrance for a young life full of promise that ended far too soon.
What are your thoughts on this heartbreaking loss? Share your condolences, memories, or opinions in the comments on ibwhsmag.com.
