AUSTIN (KXAN) — A woman begged for the community to help find the person who shot and killed her son nearly six months ago in east Austin.

Dorita Reece joined Austin police as well as her family’s pastor at a news conference Wednesday morning because they’re still looking for leads after the May 9 homicide of Davante Reece, 19. A detective shared police have several persons of interest in the case, but they have yet to make any arrests.

“I need y’all to put yourself in my shoes. It’s not a good feeling. I ache. I hurt. I can’t sleep,” Dorita told reporters. “Please help to find my baby’s killer, please. I’m tired. I’m tired. Please help me if you can.”

On May 9 at about 11:29 p.m., Austin police officers responded to several calls reporting gunshots in the area of Manor Road and Rogge Lane. Police said the shooting happened during a gathering in an apartment complex parking lot there. Officers at the scene checked that location but could not locate any victims.

Davante Reece, 19, was identified as the victim of a May 9, 2023 homicide in east Austin. (Austin Police Department photo)
Davante Reece, 19, was identified as the victim of a May 9, 2023 homicide in east Austin. (Austin Police Department photo)

APD said a short time later, a woman called 911 and said her boyfriend had been shot. Officers responded to the call location in the 6200 block of Breeze Way, which is several blocks from the initial shooting scene.

Officers found Reece there with “apparent gunshot wounds.” First aid was given, but police said Reece died at the scene. Investigators said they believe Reece was shot in the 5700 block of Manor Road. No arrests have been made, and the investigation is ongoing.

Dorita wore a red baseball cap Wednesday, which she said her son had on the night of the shooting. She said she struggled to understand how this happened.

“I guarantee you [Davante] is up there with his wings on, and he’s in a better place than the guy who shot him could ever be,” she said.

Anyone with any information should call APD at (512) 974-TIPS. You may also submit your tip anonymously through the Capital Area Crime Stoppers Program by visiting austincrimestoppers.org or calling (512) 472-8477. A reward of up to $1,000 may be available for any information that leads to an arrest.

This case is being investigated as Austin’s 28th homicide of 2023.