Statement from the Mayor

Within the last two weeks, we have experienced something no community should ever have to endure - two tragic shootings involving teenagers, resulting in the loss of young lives.

I want our citizens to know that these are not random acts of violence. The suspects and the victims in these incidents knew each other well.

They were fifteen- and sixteen-year-olds who had guns.

On behalf of the City of Mesquite, I offer my deepest condolences to the families who are grieving, and to the friends, classmates, and neighbors whose lives have been shaken by the recent tragedies on Pecan Creek Drive and Rusk Drive.

To lose even one young person is heartbreaking. To lose two in one week is devastating.

I know I'm not alone when I say that we are tired of this. Tired of violence cutting lives short. Tired of watching our young people walk a dangerous path with easy access to guns and no clear support system to guide them.

This cannot become normal.

But even in this moment of grief, we can't afford to remain angry or hopeless. We must act.

Parents - talk to your children. Know where they are, know who they're with, and know what's happening in their lives. Make sure they do not have access to weapons. If you suspect your child or a teen you know is heading down the wrong path, step in. Get help. Reach out.

Community members - support the many good kids in Mesquite who want to learn, grow, and live safe lives. Don't give in to hopelessness or the belief that nothing can change. Be part of the change. Volunteer, mentor, advocate. We need more safe spaces, more trusted adults, and more opportunities for youth to thrive.

Now more than ever, parents, schools, faith leaders, and neighbors need to come together to support our teens and ensure they feel seen, heard, and guided.

This is the time for unity - not blame. For action - not apathy. No community - no family - should experience this kind of grief.

The City is committed to working with our community partners to strengthen prevention efforts and provide safe pathways for our youth.

But we must face this moment with a renewed sense of urgency. Please pray for the families who are hurting. And pray for our youth.

And most of all, resolve with me to be part of a community that refuses to give up on its future.