Classmates of 16-Year-Old Ralph Yarl Hold 'Unity Walk' After His Hospital Release

Lester, 84, shot the 16-year-old after the teenknocked on his door in errorwhile looking to pick up his younger siblings at a friend’s address on Thursday.

On Tuesday, community members joined ina “unity walk"to voice their support for the high school junior as he begins onhis road to recovery.

“This display of unity is intended to support Ralph in his recovery and have a positive impact on the community,” Susan Hiland, a spokesperson for North Kansas City Public Schools,explained to KSBH.

According to the outlet, approximately 1,500 students came together for the event and walked around the school’s campus chanting “We love you, Ralph,” and “Justice for Ralph.”

Individuals who participated in the walk also wore blue to honor Yarl’s favorite color, as well as dressed in spirit wear.

“Ralph is an excellent student and talented musician. He maintains a stellar GPA while taking mostly college-level courses. While he loves science and hopes to pursue that career path, his passion is music. Thankfully, we know he is now recovering alongside family,” added North Kansas City Schools Superintendent Dr. Dan Clemens in a statementshared on the district’s website.

Ralph Yarl shooting protestors.Susan Pfannmuller/The Kansas City Star/AP

On Tuesday, Yarl’s mother, Cleo Nagbe, and her attorney, Lee Merritt, appeared on CBS Mornings toprovide a medical update following his releasefrom the hospital.

“Ralph is doing considerably well,” Nagbe said. “Physically, mornings are hard. But his spirits are in a good place. I borrowed from his spirits. He is in very good hands.”

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After the incident, Lester was charged with first-degree assault and armed criminal action. The Clay County Sheriff’s Office shared on Twitter that he reported to their detention center on Tuesday and wasreleased after posting bond.

source: people.com