Keelan Wilson: Family release balloons on anniversary of teenager's murder
Loved ones of murdered teenager Keelan Wilson have united at the spot where he died to release balloons in the schoolboy's memory.
Family and friends joined Keelan's parents Kelly Ellitts and Gary Wilson as balloons bearing heartfelt messages were sent into the skies.
It came one year after the 15-year-old was stabbed to death just yards away from his Wolverhampton home - with his killers still at large.
WATCH: Keelan's parents seek justice
Ms Ellitts broke down in tears as the balloons were released in Merry Hill's Strathfield Walk just after 6pm on Wednesday.
She said: "I wanted to do this, to put messages on the balloons, and hope they get to Keelan.
"We wanted to get everyone round here because the police have issued a fresh appeal. Things can change in a year so anyone who did not come forward before may want to now.
"It's as fresh today as it was the day it happened. People say that things get easier with time but that's not true, it gets harder. We miss him a great deal. I have to carry on because I have other kids."
Bouquets of flowers, toy windmills and yellow tealights in the shape of a heart were laid at the scene where the teenager died.
A banner featuring a collage of pictures of Keelan hung outside the family's Fareham Crescent home as loved ones came together to pay their respects.
Ms Ellitts, who does not believe her son was part of a gang, said she hoped Keelan's death would send a message to other teenagers across the city caught up in crime.
She added: "Life isn't a game. Losing your life is a big deal, everyone involved is affected. It just isn't worth it, carrying a knife.
"We will get justice for Keelan, we won't stop until we do. We won't stop fighting, we are his parents and that's what we will have to do."
An armed gang of masked attackers ambushed Keelan as he tended to a broken-down car with a friend at about 11pm on May 29 last year.
The former Castlecroft Primary School pupil was repeatedly stabbed and rushed to New Cross Hospital but pronounced dead by medics.
GALLERY: Mourners gather for the balloon release
Over the past year, nine teenagers have been arrested but no charges have been brought over the teenager’s murder.
Mr Wilson urged anyone with information to get in touch with police, even if anonymously.
He added: "If they know anything, they should get in contact with the authorities. They shouldn't feel scared or intimidated.
"It's very important that my family and friends are still actively involved in remembering Keelan and I hope it goes on because he was a loved person, and still is."
Call police with information on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
