Family remembers anti-violence volunteer killed in Old Town shooting: 'so much more he could do'

CHICAGO (WLS) -- Family and friends of Javanti Smith are mourning the loss of the 40-year-old Chicago man, whom they say was beginning a new chapter in his life before he was fatally shot this week.

Chicago police said Smith was shot and killed early Tuesday morning in Old Town while standing outside near Sedgwick Street and Evergreen Avenue, not far from the neighborhood where he grew up.

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His brother, Jason Smith, said the family is struggling to come to terms with the loss.

"We went through a lot, grew up in Cabrini-Green. And we all made it out," Jason Smith said. "I just hate that my mother's baby boy is gone so early, man. He just started hitting his stride."

According to his brother, Javanti Smith's life reflected the possibility of change.

Jason Smith said his brother had served time in prison on drug possession charges, but devoted himself to helping others after his release. He volunteered with local anti-violence organizations and worked to support younger people in his community.

"I was crying and reading all his letters from when he was in there about the things he wanted to do and change and how he wanted to evolve. And he did that, and there was so much more he could do," Jason Smith said.

Colleagues at No Kids Die in the Chi also remembered Smith in a statement following his death.

"Javanti started his Activist life a few years ago with the no kids die in the chi foundation and the near north 365 organization ... he tried his best to help keep violence down and peace in his community, the same community he ended up losing his life to," the statement said.

Police are continuing to investigate the shooting and have not announced a motive. Authorities said no arrests have been made.

As the investigation continues, Smith's family said they hope justice will be served. They said he will be remembered for his fashion sense, energy and the positive impact he had on those around him.

"If you talked to anybody about him, they'll tell you how good of a man he is. That's the part I really appreciate about him. I just wish he had a little longer time for us," Jason Smith said.

A GoFundMe campaign for the family had raised more than $1,300. Smith is survived by four children.