The mother of the Bradford High School student stabbed by another student in a classroom last week said she forgives the person responsible.
Melodie Hopkins said when she received the call from the school last Tuesday her 15-year-old son had been stabbed she felt helpless.
"I just screamed I said where were you," said Melodie Hopkins, mother.
Three days later Hopkins was forced to say goodbye to her oldest child Dez'Jon Taylor.
"He had a great heart and I miss him," said Hopkins.
15-year-old Timothy Carson is accused of stabbing Taylor in the chest. Carson will be charged as an adult with second degree intentional homicide.
"In this situation it was more about pride got in the way," said Hopkins.
Carson's family has been vocal, saying they're sorry for the families loss, but claim Taylor was a bully and that's why Carson had a knife at school.
"How can anybody say that. That is insensitive that's cruel," said Hopkins.
Hopkins said the boys were friends.
"He was never a bully."
She knows Carson didn't mean to kill her son.
"I don't hate him. I've actually I had to forgive him while I was at my son's bedside and I just wish him the best.
Family and friends said Taylor knew how to light up a room.
"He was like my big brother and I love him and I always wanted to be like him," said Angel Martinez, friend.
"My son was great. He was becoming a man at a young age," said Jonathan Taylor, father.
Hopkins hopes kids can learn from her worst nightmare.
"Use your mind. Be smart, walk away. One second could change your entire life and now two families are hurt forever."
She will always remember he son's vibrant personality and caring heart.
"He's a very great kid. I miss him. This is just senseless. I can't wrap my mind around it and he will be forever loved," said Hopkins.
Family and friends hope the school will put up metal detectors. The district hasn't commented on safety changes.
There will be a vigil for Taylor Friday at 5:30 p.m. in Kennedy Park in Kenosha.
Hopkins said she wants to send her son home with a proper funeral. To learn how to help go to True Star Financial Bank in Kenosha or visit this website.
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