BURNSVILLE, Minnesota — Friends and family celebrated the life of a Burnsville boy who his mother said died protecting her.
Eight-year-old Amir Harden was shot and killed by his father in June. His mother, Cherish Edwards, said Amir was hit by a bullet meant for her.
On Saturday afternoon, the principal of Amir’s primary school led the balloon release during the celebration.
“Just take it day by day, second by second, moment by moment,” Edwards said.
Saturday’s celebration at Lac Lavon Park in Burnsville marks just over two months since the unthinkable happened: the loss of Edwards’ son, who she said only wanted to protect her.
“If it wasn’t for Amir, I wouldn’t be here right now,” Edwards said. “And so he’s a hero.”
Amir’s siblings are still processing their new reality.
“They don’t really realize how permanent it is,” Edwards said.
Amir was known for his love of superheroes and sports.
“He was always special and determined,” Edwards said.
He was destined to do great things, his mother said.
“He really loved soccer, that was his favorite sport. He loved running, he loved dancing, he loved playing soccer, he was just good at everything, he could just pick it up,” Edwards said.
Amir’s mother now wants to ensure that her son’s life and the impact he had are not forgotten.
“I love him and I will always be his mother and even though he’s gone physically, energy never dies, so I know he’s still here. I will love him forever,” Edwards said.
Edwards said the shooting stemmed from a history of domestic violence.
For anonymous, confidential help, people can call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233 or 1-800-787-3224.
