Michael Goulbourne was only 14 years old when he was shot and killed by robbers Friday evening. Michael was helping his father close their family BBQ stand when robbers demanded money and jewelry, than started shooting.

Michael died at the scene.

Today, I interviewed his mother, Jacqueline Williams, who tells me Michael was in the gifted and talented program at Normandy Middle School. He ran track, played trumpet in the band, and was a natural peace maker. That may be why he was one of the students selected to be on the Safety Patrol at school (a student who helps patrol the halls, keep other students out of trouble).

It is no wonder so many people in Michael's life have stepped forward to keep Michael's story alive.

This Thursday, his school will hold a memorial service in the school gym at 6 p.m.

Another group is holding a bike ride and prayer vigil Thursday night. Bikers can meet at 1924 N. Vandeventer at 7 p.m. then ride together to 1206 North Kingshighway Blvd. for an 8 p.m. vigil.

I also spoke with a man from the non-profit group, Better Family Life, who says he his planning a separate rally to demand the shooter turn himself over to police. The rally will be at 4:45 p.m. at Maple and Kingshighway Blvd.

Michael's funeral is scheduled for this Friday at Concordia Lutheran Church in Kirkwood. Visitation will be held from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. The funeral begins at 11 a.m.

There is a memorial fund set up. Donations can be made at any Bank of America. Ask for the Michael Goulbourne Funeral Fund.

1 Comments

Colleen said:

This story just made my heart break in half. And, to think Michael was just a kid!! Minding his own business at that! You know, StL has so many gems, but gee, does it have some sour grapes too! To Saint Louis, I'm sorry. I'm sorry Michael's family/friends. I wish this did not happen. And, if I could personally take this pain away, I wish I could. I can't do much, but what I will do is be a better citizen for Michael's sake.

May 13, 2009 4:37 PM

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