The family of 18-year-old Kenneth “Trae” Leaks III is pleading for answers after the young man was tragically gunned down just days after graduating from Manvel High School. Trae, a standout student-athlete, was known for his leadership and tenacity, both on and off the field, and his unexpected death has left his family heartbroken.
A Bright Future Cut Short
Trae had just graduated on May 20, 2025, and was about to embark on the next chapter of his life with a full athletic scholarship to Sterling College in Kansas. His family describes him as someone who, once he set his mind to something, would accomplish it. He was also the first in his immediate family to graduate high school, a huge milestone for him and his loved ones.
Sadly, Trae’s bright future was cut short. Just four days after his graduation, on May 24, 2025, the family received the devastating news that he had been shot. Trae was in a car at an apartment complex off North Braesewood Boulevard in Houston, waiting to meet someone when several men approached the vehicle. Shots were fired into the car, and Trae was struck.
A Family Seeking Justice
Trae’s aunt, Naya Merchant, shared her grief, urging anyone with information about the shooting to come forward. “We want answers. We want justice to be served,” she told KHOU 11 News. The shooter remains on the loose, and Houston police are continuing their investigation.
Merchant expressed a powerful message of forgiveness but also urged the person responsible to take accountability for their actions. “I forgive you. Forgiveness is more for me than it is for you,” she said. “But I pray that you would turn yourself in — just take accountability for your actions.”
Community Support and Funeral Arrangements
The family is asking for support during this painful time. A funeral for Trae will be held on Saturday at 11 a.m. at The Church on MastersRoad in Manvel. The family is also raising funds to cover funeral expenses. Donations can be made through an online fundraiser to help cover the costs.
The loss of Trae has left the Manvel community and his family in shock. As the investigation continues, his loved ones remain hopeful that justice will be served and that the person responsible for this senseless crime will be held accountable.
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