She was walking home from feeding a neighbor’s dogs when she was caught by a stray bullet.
RELATED: Dayton woman killed by stray bullet was quadriplegic son’s primary caregiver
One year ago this week, the Dayton grandmother was killed in a drive-by shooting.
A new memorial sits at the spot where 62-year-old Sherrell Wheatly was shot May 19, 2018, on North Euclid Avenue. Loved ones freshened up the display to mark the anniversary of her death.
“It was a senseless killing, and ... she meant everything to everybody in this neighborhood,” said friend and neighbor Perry Thompson.
Thompson said he’s struggled with Wheatley’s death. His dogs were the ones Wheatley had just fed while he was away.
“It hurts. It hurts to know that somebody is helping me ... gets killed leaving my house,” Thompson said.
RELATED: Family of woman slain in drive-by shooting frustrated by lack of info from police
News Center 7 spent time in the neighborhood right after Wheatley’s killing. Family members said they wanted answers.
“We deserve justice, apology. You damaged us for life,” said Jackie Allen, Wheatley’s niece.
But one year later, there is no justice. That’s because Dayton police still have not been able to figure out who killed Wheatley.
The loss is not just affecting Wheatley’s grandchildren she cared for, but also her adult son who is paralyzed and lived with her.
Neighbors say this has left a hole in their lives, too.
“She was a great person. She was a best friend for everyone on the street,” Thompson said. “She was better than a wife to me.”
Thompson said the person responsible should come forward. But he is not optimistic.
“I mean, realize they made a mistake ... just hold yourself accountable for it. But that’s not going to happen because who wants to go to prison.”
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