Shooting victim wanted to become a lawyer: dad
Criminology student remembered as hard-working and motivated
The victim of the recent fatal shooting in downtown Windsor is being remembered by those who knew him as a son, a student, and a person who tried to better himself. Jason Michael Solomon, 20, who was shot to death on Monday, was about to enter his third year in the University of Windsor’s criminology program and was an active member of a black students’ association.
“It goes without saying that my family is devastated. My heart is broken and my faith tested,” wrote Solomon’s father, Dalton, in a mournful Facebook post. “My son was a huge advocate of ending the senseless violence that plaguing our streets and taking our youths daily … He wanted to pursue an education in criminology, go to law school and become a lawyer. Make a difference in his own way. Maybe create a platform to share his very simple message, The Violence MUST Stop.” “The irony is not lost on me. Please keep my son and my family in your prayers. I’ll always love you, son.”
Windsor police have disclosed no further details about the shooting, which took place shortly before 2:40 a.m. on Aug. 27 at the intersection of Ouellette Avenue and University Avenue East. Investigators have described the homicide as a “targeted incident,” with multiple shots fired at the victim. Two male suspects remain at large, but no descriptions have been released.
The Star has learned that the 19-year-old female who was wounded in the leg in the incident was not an acquaintance of the deceased, as initially reported, but his girlfriend.
Originally from Brampton, Solomon enrolled at the University of Windsor in 2016 and quickly became involved in the Caribbean African Organization of Students. A vigil for Solomon — known among his friends as “Saucy” — was held at the university on Tuesday. “You were such a vibrant spirit, always laughing and smiling and dancing,” read a tribute post by the CAOS group on Instagram. “Not only that, you were an ambitious student ... You took your academic career very seriously. You played a significant role in CAOS as not only the academics coordinator, but as someone who brought such a positive energy into the group ... We love you, Jason. Gone too soon.” University of Windsor student Selina McCallum said Solomon encouraged the scholastic and campus endeavours of herself and others. “He was funny, hardworking, and full of life,” McCallum said.
“I will always remember Jason’s motivation to do well and be better than he was the day before.” McCallum recalled that when she ran for student council, Solomon was constantly by her side and eager to help. “I wish I could tell him how much it meant to me.” Last year, McCallum interviewed Solomon as part of a photo feature for the University of Windsor’s student publication The Lance. In the feature, Solomon said he found inspiration in pro basketball player Kobe Bryant. “For me, when I went to high school, people thought, ‘This is just another black kid from the ghetto that’s gonna disobey the rules,’” Solomon explained.
“But just like Kobe Bryant excelling over the years, my grades also improved each year ... Kobe won the championship when people didn’t believe in him. I got into university when people didn’t believe in me. I’m proud of myself.” Solomon’s parents have started a GoFundMe campaign, asking for donations to help with funeral and memorial expenses. They expect arrangements will be made in Brampton.
But just like Kobe Bryant excelling over the years, my grades also improved each year.