Umatilla Street Southeast is where Amillier Penn was shot and killed while playing football with friends. Grand Rapids police announced Tuesday that 17-year-old Cartiyae Pascal is charged as an adult with open murder in the June 2nd, 2024, death.
Now, Amillier’s father, Corey Penn, and Seeds of Promise Grand Rapids are asking the city to designate Umatilla between Madison and Union Avenues as “Amillier Penn Way.”
City Engineer Tim Burkman discussed the request at Tuesday’s Community Development Committee meeting.
“He had grown up in the area staying with his grandmother in the neighborhood and his family has circulated a petition in support of this request to honor his memory.”
Commemorative street name designations do not rename streets. Rather a blue memorial sign is placed below the city’s standard green street sign.
The Community Development Committee scheduled a public hearing on the request for June 10th.
Second Ward Commissioner Milinda Ysasi is hopeful it brings comfort to Amillier’s family.
“You know, a street designation is certainly a small way to remember such a young life taken and I hope that it also can serve as a little bit of comfort to the family.”
