COLUMBUS, Ohio — Family and friends of 17-year-old Gage Anderson gathered at Greenup County High School in Kentucky, where the teenager graduated from earlier this year, to celebrate his life.
Anderson was in Columbus with his father for work on Tuesday when he was shot and killed after police said he was involved in a road rage incident at a gas station.
Anderson’s family shared videos on how they are remembering the teenager.
“My little brother Gage, he always loved having a good time he really did,” said Anderson’s brother.
“Gage was such a special kid to be around. He put a smile on everyone's face,” said his aunt.
“Greenup County will be a little less bright without Gage. We’re going to miss you,” said his former teacher.
The teen was found unresponsive and suffering from a gunshot wound at the United Dairy Farmers gas station on Clime Road on the west side of Columbus Tuesday evening.
His father called 911.
Witnesses reported seeing the suspect, 30-year-old Skyler Burley, leaving the scene. He was arrested shortly after and charged with murder.
Burley told police he and Anderson were “exchanging words” over a road rage incident when Anderson “lunged at him.” He told police he shot Anderson in self-defense. He appeared in court on Thursday morning with a bandage on his face.
“He is claiming this is a matter of self-defense as indicated by his sustained injuries,” the defense attorney said.
Anderson’s father, Jason, declined an interview but said his son was a “good young man” and had a tremendous amount of friends. He denied witnessing any road rage.
It is unclear what the initial traffic argument may have been about.