45°
McCray, a Columbia resident, was critically wounded in the Feb. 22 attack that killed his friend, 16-year-old Michael Jerome Robertson III, in the parking lot near the Lidl grocery store on Little Patuxent Parkway, according to Howard County Police.
After spending days fighting for his life in the hospital, McCray succumbed to his injuries on Saturday, March 1, officials said
"He was a beloved son, brother, friend, student, and athlete," a family friend wrote on a GoFundMe campaign launched to support his loved ones. "Blake was a funny, kind, caring, and loving young man, who touched and impacted all those he surrounded.
"He was truly one of a kind."
McCray was a student-athlete at Oakland Mills High School, though he was a fixture throughout the Howard County community, according to his loved ones.
"Blake left an immeasurable impact on his family, friends, school community, and the Howard County Community," Ashley Young wrote in the fundraiser. "His legacy, a testament to his love, wit, and that effortless half-smile, will endure."
McCray had turned 15 just weeks before he was shot and killed, according to one of his teachers.
"Blake was a funny and charismatic kid who just turned 15 only weeks before this tragic incident,' Felicia Bond posted on social media while sharing the GoFundMe.
"My heart aches for Blake’s family and for my students (and all of his friends) as we all mourn his passing."
Another teacher wrote: "He was a truly amazing soul and someone who I spoke to, smiled, and laughed with on a daily basis.
"It is tough to describe how much this kid meant to me."
Since McCray’s passing, donations have poured in, with thousands raised by well-wishers rallying behind his family.
Those interested in donating to the GoFundMe for the McCray family can do so here. A separate fundraiser has also been kickstarted for Robertson's family.
"Though 'Gone Too Soon,' his spirit remains with us," organizers wrote.
"His memory will be eternally cherished, and his presence will forever be felt by those who loved him."
Want breaking news in the DMV as it happens, or want to contribute? Join the DMV All Incidents Facebook group.
Click here to follow Daily Voice North Bethesda and receive free news updates.
