More than 1 year since Fort Myers 12-year-old shot, recovered

FORT MYERS, Fla. — It’s been more than a year since a 12-year-old Cypress Lake Middle School student was shot three times at a picnic, and the shooter is still at large.

Although Fort Myers Police Department said Luxury Vance was not the target, her family was outraged by the attack.

“I know the gunman seen the kids out there,” said Vance’s grandmother Shirley Lias. “You have no respect, no remorse for nothing you do, you young men in Dunbar need to cut it out.”

Tonya Chrisp, Vance’s mother was saddened by that fateful night.

“It’s like your whole life is going so smoothly… you have two great daughters… with so much passion and love for each other… and in one night it can be.. your whole life can be upside down..” Chrisp said.

After this tragedy, it was hard to tell whether she’d return to doing what she loves: playing basketball. Her mother said she’s so proud of how her daughter’s persevered throughout the recovery process.

“She was dressed sitting on the couch… and Respect was getting ready to walk out and do her shooting… and she said, ‘I’m ready…,'” Chrisp said.

This marvelous transformation came at a steep price: more than $200,000 of surgery. Although most was covered by insurance, the bills added up.

Anyone with information on the gunman is encouraged to call Fort Myers Police Department at 239-321-7700, or CRIME STOPPERS at 1-800-780-8477.

This shooting effects everything from general safety to taxes, no matter the location. WINK News Anchor Chris Cifatte will give an in depth look at this story 6 p.m. Thursday.