Basketball legend and activist LeBron James is searching for answers following the tragic death of his best friend Brandon Weems’ sister, Ericka Weems. The 35-year-old Akron, Ohio, native took to Twitter to express his grief. He also asked the community via the social media platform to help find the perpetrator of the egregious crime.
“AKRON OHIO!! My brother’s sister was murdered this past weekend in her home! My brother’s family needs answers to why and by whom. My city, I need y’all to go to work and find out who did this awful, shameful, disgusting thing to such a caring, loving angel,” he wrote.
AKRON OHIO!! My brother’s sister was murdered this past weekend in her home! My brother family need answers to why and by whom. My city I need y’all to go to work and find out who did this awful, shameful, disgusting thing to such a caring, loving angel! #Justice4EricaWeems❤️????
— LeBron James (@KingJames) November 4, 2020
The emotional tweet came after James was informed that Ericka’s body was discovered on Monday. She died from a single gunshot wound to the head, according to Cleveland.com.
Brandon is the director of scouting for the Cleveland Cavaliers. General Manager Koby Altman issued a statement offering the NBA team’s condolences and resources to the Weems family.
“The entire Cavaliers organization was saddened to learn about the recent tragic death of Brandon Weems’ sister Ericka. Our hearts are heavy and full of pain over this senseless act,” the statement read.
“We express our deepest condolences to Brandon, the entire Weems family, their loved ones, and the Akron community,” the statement continued. “We will be with Brandon throughout the extremely difficult time and will offer our assistance and resources to help find justice for Ericka.”
Statement from GM Koby Altman regarding the tragic death of Ericka Weems pic.twitter.com/wJ0rtYZJSw
— Cleveland Cavaliers (@cavs) November 4, 2020
Cleveland.com reported that police found the woman’s body in her bedroom at 3 p.m. after officers were called to perform a wellness check on the 37-year-old as family members had been unable to reach her.
Lt. Michael Miller of the Akron Police Department told the publication they didn't have any suspects or motive for the shooting and that Ericka was well-loved by the community.
“Talking with people not just in the family, but in the community, she was the last person someone would expect this to happen to,” the officer said. “She didn’t have an adversarial relationship with anyone in her life. It looks like another unfortunate and senseless murder.”
Ericka held a graduate degree from Kent State University and owned a daycare in the community.
Distraught over the tragic killing, Brandon penned a stirring tribute to his older sister on his Instagram account.
“To my beautiful sister, we were just talking about celebrating your birthday, and now I can’t believe you are gone!! Taken from me, the family, and your friends way too soon,” Brandon wrote on Instagram. “You were truly our mom’s child. You had such a kind heart and a warm soul. So open to care for, help, and love whoever crossed your path. You recently just found your’ glow,’ and it looked amazing on you!! I was so proud of you and happy that you finally found peace and happiness in your life.”
“Why would anyone want to do this to you?? I’m so angry, sad and heartbroken. My life will never be the same without you!! But I’m happy you and mom are back together! Watch over us from up there, and I promise we got you down here!! Love you forever and always!!” he continued.
According to Cleveland.com, James and Brandon grew up in Akron and even played basketball together – first in a recreational league and then in school.
In a 2015 Michigan Live interview, James affectionately referred to Brandon as his little brother.
“I make sure I look out for him,” James said. “He’s my little brother.”
As James and the Weems family scramble for answers, Lt. Miller said he hopes that the basketball superstar’s influence and appeal to the public will help give the grieving family closure.
