It’s been nearly three months since the family of Samuel Hayes Jr. buried him, and on Wednesday evening, dozens of his friends and loved ones rallied outside the St. Louis City Justice Center, calling for an end to in-custody deaths at the facility.
A group of nearly 100 people stood on Tucker Boulevard and held blue, yellow and white balloons in honor of Hayes, 31, before releasing them.
Everyone shouted, “Forever 31, forever 31!” before letting them go. The balloons floated high in the air, well above the six-story city jail. Candles were lit, tears were shed, and speeches recalling Hayes’ life were shared.
Hayes’ mother, Anita Washington, stood among the crowd holding a lit candle, still grieving the loss of her son, who died in July in jail custody.
“I miss my son dearly,” Washington said. “Since he passed away, nothing can replace his love. I carry him in my heart and mind, treasuring every memory. … I love you, lil Sam.”…