Demetrius Lightfoot Jr., 17, Remembered In Bradenton After Manatee High School Senior Passed Away Days Before Graduation
Demetrius Lightfoot Jr., a 17-year-old senior at Manatee High School, passed away in Bradenton, Florida, during graduation week.
On Monday, May 18, 2026, around 10:15 p.m., Bradenton Police Department officers responded to the 700 block of 12th Ave. W. after a call about a teenager down outside a residence.
Authorities said Demetrius had already passed away when officers arrived, and officials released the name with the full permission of the family.
The loss has deeply affected family, friends, classmates, school staff, and the wider Bradenton community that expected to celebrate graduation.
The Manatee County School District made crisis counselors available for students and staff as they process the loss of a classmate.
Detectives continue to investigate, and authorities said 16-year-old Santana Derion Davis is being sought in connection with the matter.
Memorial service details and obituary arrangements will be announced later by family members.
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