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Loved ones remember teen killed in McKees Rocks shooting

MCKEES ROCKS, Pa. — A community is mourning the loss of a teenager who died after he was shot in McKees Rocks on Tuesday.

Jihad Cromer, 17, died Tuesday night at a Pittsburgh hospital about three hours after he was shot.

Allegheny County police were called around 6:30 p.m. to assist McKees Rocks police with a shooting that was reported at an apartment at 10 Robb Avenue.

Police sources said Cromer was playing video games in an apartment bedroom with at least three other people when he was shot in the head.

Those people are not talking to police, which leaves many questions unanswered.

A police sergeant said it's unlikely that Cromer was holding the gun when the shot was fired, but it remained unclear whether the shooting was accidental.

In the meantime, loved ones are remembering the breakout Sto-Rox High School basketball star who was a mentor to many children in Hayes Manor. On Tuesday, the basketball court where he spent so much time became a memorial site for friends and family to pay their personal tributes.

Friends said Cromer didn't have an enemy in the world.

"A lot of colleges were looking at him. He had a bright future. We just wish we could get closure on this as soon as possible," said Jessica Griffin, a friend of Cromer's.

Stephanie Westfall, who lives next door, heard the gunshot.

"For this to happen next door with such young kids in the house is the scarier part," Westfall said.

Police questioned several people and said they hope to know what happened soon.

A vigil in honor of Cromer was held at 7 p.m. Wednesday at Hayes Manor.