Brittany Jones, mother of Londynn and Demetrius Wall-Neal, shares an emotional message during the dedication ceremony. She thanked the community for remembering her children and supporting the creation of a place that brings people together. “I am just overwhelmed with joy that no one is forgetting Demetrius and Londynn,” Jones said.
Londynn and Demetrius Wall-Neal’s brother, Jarael Straughter, delivers the ceremonial first kick on the new mini pitch at Canal Winchester Schools, dedicated in memory of his siblings. The pitch honors the memory of his siblings and marks the beginning of a space dedicated to community, play, and healing.
Scott Waibel, Canal Winchester High School Class of 1975, speaks at the dedication of the mini pitch he helped bring to life. The project was funded through his generosity, along with support from Musco Lighting, the U.S. Soccer Foundation, and the MLS Players Association. Waibel dedicated the pitch to the memory of Londynn and Demetrius Wall- Neal and to all Ohio children lost to violence. “This pitch is my version of ‘love one another as yourself,” Waibel said.
Photos and Story by Hannah Poling
Canal Winchester Schools held a heartfelt dedication ceremony on Monday, September 29, to unveil a new mini-soccer pitch located between Indian Trail and Winchester Trail Elementary Schools.
The event honored the memory of Londynn, 6, and Demetrius, 9, Wall-Neal,. Londynn and Demetrius were shot while in a vehicle with family friend Charles Wade, near Canal Winchester in December 2021. The mini-soccer pitch dedication included a special tribute to Ohio children taken by violence.
The project was made possible through the generosity of Canal Winchester alumnus Scott Waibel, Class of 1975, with support from Musco Lighting, Waibel’s employer, the U.S. Soccer Foundation, and the MLS Players Association.
The mini pitch serves as a lasting symbol of love, community, and healing, offering a safe, welcoming space for children and families to gather and play.
The investigation is open and tips can be sent to Columbus Division of Police.
