Community meeting following shooting death of 18 year old in Silver Spring park

SILVER SPRING, Md. — The Silver Spring community is still coping with the tragic loss of an 18 year-old that was gunned down at a park in Silver Spring, the day before his 19th birthday.

Miriam Ortiz told WUSA9 it's a void that she will always feel.

"I remember the last time I saw him. I told him, I love you, no matter what happened in the streets, I love you" Ortiz, said. 

On Oct. 1, her son, 18-year-old Christian Ortiz was shot and killed at Seek Lane Park in Silver Spring, just one day before his 19th birthday. His mother said she still doesn't know why.

On Monday evening, two weeks after the incident, his mother, community members, and local leaders gathered for a night of reflection and to highlight the work that still needs to be done within the community.

Neighbors shared several concerns about Seek Lane Park, including not feeling safe taking a walk, needing more lighting and constant crime nearby.

Montgomery Council Vice President, Kate Stewart is hoping the meeting will create change. Montgomery County Police and Park Police sent officers to the meeting.  

"People will get to talk to each other. Hoping it will help us start the healing process. It's about resources and building trust. To make sure people know the police department and who the police officers are," Stewart, said. 

Police told community members the shooting wasn't random and that it followed a fight of some kind.

Montgomery County Police said there is no suspect in custody and no arrests have been made.

For now, police say they will be increasing their patrols in and around the park. Police encouraged witnesses to step forward. 

If you have any information, police want to hear from you.