The state of Georgia was shaken and chilled to the bone on July 24, 2016 when news arose of the death of West Georgia student Bryce McCallum. The 19 year old who had just finished his freshman year at the university was reported to have been found in a chair in his home with a gunshot wound to the head. His stepfather Carl Lewis was reported at the First Baptist Church of Woodstock around 1:00 in the afternoon where he confessed the murder to police officers helping direct traffic. Lewis was taken to Cherokee County Adult Detention Center and charged on a count of murder, aggravated assault and other charges without bond. McCallum was expecting a child with his girlfriend.
The death of student Bryce McCallum wasn't one to be pushed under the rug. A psychology major and football player going into his second year of college and a soon-to-be father, his death came as a shock to many. "11 Alive," posted about a 2015 report of domestic abuse reporting that Bryce was standing up for his mother and little brother and got into an altercation with his stepfather. Long time friend and roommate, said that violent encounters between the pair was a common-stance in the house up until Bryce was sadly shot.
On July 26, 2016 many from Etowah High School, the community, and even some West Georgia friends all gathered in front of Etowah high school in Bryce's favorite colors, red and black. Hearing from Bryce's little brother, his uncle, and many of his closest friends. All there to remember how special Bryce McCallum was.
"Etowah High School mourns the death of Bryce McCallum, Class of 2015. Bryce was loved by his friends and football teammates and positively contributed to his school and community. Our thoughts and prayers go to his family and friends."
Best friend Christian Malon dedicated a small tribute to Bryce on Tuesday afternoon at the picnic table sitting behind the Humanities building at the University of West Georgia. Posting this picture on photo sharing app Instagram.
"@christianalexmalon: Please leave this hat here in memory of Bryce McCallum. It was his favorite, and he always asked if he could have it. Here ya go buddy. Right at your favorite spot. #uwg"
Bryce was also a soon-to-be father, and friends have been nothing but courteous in offering to help raise the baby boy. A GoFundMe account has been set up [here] to help support the soon to be newborn in any way needed. I encourage all to donate even a little, or pass on the word so that this family may not only reach their goal but go over it to give themselves everything they need and more.
And although I've only had very few conversations with Bryce, and didn't know him as well as others, I extend my hands in prayer to Bryce's family, friends, and anyone affected by this haunting news. I also open my messages to anyone who wants someone to pray alongside them. I may be in Michigan, but I light this candle in honor of the sweet soul that was Bryce McCallum, and hope he's flying high in Heaven.
Funeral processions were held Saturday July 30, 2016 at the Allen Temple A.M.E Church in Woodstock, GA.
