Hundreds gather for funeral after Brunswick football player shot and killed

BRUNSWICK, Ga. Family and friends of 16-year-old MyKal Ellis gathered Saturday to remember the life of the Brunswick Teen at his home service.

A Brunswick High School football player was shot and killed in front of his home on Johnston Street.

His family and police said they do not believe he was the intended target.

This young man lived life. A full life. He was loved, one person said of the teenager.

Nate Angry coached Ellis when he was a kid and said this situation is something he never experienced. Toi Smallwood also deals with the pain of losing Elis.

Just a fun loving kid. He had a smile that would light up a room and was fun to be around, Smallwood said. He was very respectful and anything you asked him to do, he did it effortlessly. He was a good kid.

Loved ones said Ellis had dreamed of becoming a professional footballer.

He worked hard at football and tried to improve himself every day to get better so he could go when the time came, Smallwood said.

A family member also read a poem about his love for soccer to share Elliss passion for the sport.

Just imagine him signing autographs, walking into a big arena, signing autographs and escorting patronage.

Loved ones said he was an innocent child full of love, a wonderful teammate and someone who always looked out for others.

Jason Vaugh, Elliss’ football coach, like most, feels he’s been robbed of precious time with the teenager.

“I thought I had three more years with MyKal,” Vaugh said. Our lives are different. Our lives are better because of this innocent child who is full of love.

Police are looking for 21-year-old Breon Hartley of Jacksonville in connection with the shooting.

Police said Hartley is considered armed and dangerous and anyone with knowledge of his whereabouts should call 911. Those with additional information are encouraged to contact Det. Anthony Trollinger at (912) 279-2640 or Silent Witness at (912) 267-5516.