ORANGE COUNTY, Fla. – During the Christmas season, a wave of gun violence tragically claimed the lives of three teenagers in Orange County. As the community grapples with these losses, loved ones recently expressed their grief over the death of a 13-year-old boy.

Yet, the sorrow continues as residents mourn another young life cut short—a 16-year-old athlete whose passion for football and dreams of a brighter future left a lasting impression on those who knew him.

Raylin “Lil’Ray” Harrison was fatally shot on 26th Street, just days following the holiday. At only 16, he was reportedly visiting a friend’s home when the incident occurred, leaving a community in shock.

[RELATED VIDEO: 3 teens shot, killed in separate shootings during Christmas week in Orange County]

Harrison’s death has sent ripples of sadness, particularly through the local football scene. Boris Jackson, his coach and a close family friend, shared that the loss is overwhelmingly painful for everyone who cherished him.

“He was a very peaceful kid,” Jackson said.

Jackson last saw Harrison just one day before his life was taken. The two shared what would unknowingly be their final conversation.

“I said, ‘I love you, boy,’ and he said, ‘I love you too, Coach Bo Jack.” Jackson recalled, “then finding out he had passed, I was devastated. I just saw him on Saturday.”

Jackson says he was more than just a coach to Harrison. He had known him since childhood, first meeting him through a youth speed training program and later watching him grow.

“Raylin was a young kid who came to my speed-plus program when he was little,” Jackson said.

According to Jackson, Harrison excelled on the football field and was known for his work ethic and determination.

“He was a workaholic; he just wanted to play football and do well,” he said.

But Harrison’s character extended far beyond sports. Jackson says the teen was already thinking about his future and his faith.

“He told me he appreciated me inviting him to church because he wanted to be saved,” Jackson shared.

No arrests have been made in connection with Harrison’s death. As the investigation continues, Jackson hopes justice will be served and that the violence plaguing the community will come to an end.

“We have to stop the violence,” Jackson said. “As a product of Orlando, Florida, we have to do a better job teaching how to de-escalate situations between our boys, girls, and adults.”

He says Harrison was not a fighter, but a respectful and peaceful young man whose life was cut far too short. His coach and loved ones continue to hope that answers — and accountability — will come soon.