The family and friends of Jefferson County Teen talk about the death of tragic shooting

Sylvan Springs, Ala.-Die community, mourns the loss of 17-year-old Clayton Randall, who was shot tragically near a boat ramp in West-Jefferson County at the weekend. Clayton had just completed homeschool and spent his last day enjoying the water with friends.

Stephanie Randall, Clayton's mother, described her son as “a heart of gold” and said: “Everything he did, he did it with his whole heart.” She told about the events that led to the tragedy and explained that Clayton, his father and two friends had fished all day long and tried to beat an arriving storm. “They always had pistols because of snakes,” she said.

The police reported that after the excursion a weapon was fired, which led to Clayton's death. Stephanie Randall said: “One of the weapons failed and she killed Clayton. These boys have revived him and everything until the ambulance arrived to revive him and everything, but he was already gone.” Two people were interviewed by the police and later released.

Stephanie Randall expressed her belief that the shootout was random, and asked for prayers for those involved and said: “I know that it was accidental, I know that it was accidental in my heart, and I just want everyone to pray for these young because they have a hard time.”

Clayton friends shared good memories of him. Sam Vaughan said: “He was a really good friend. I knew when I ever needed someone who would be there.” Jose Irecza remembered: “My first day there, Sam and Clayton were the first to talk to me.” Will Vaughan added: “He always ensured that it was okay when I was there.”

Clayton played baseball at the Hueytown High School in his first year. In his memory, the family asks donations to the baseball team Hueytown High School instead of flowers. Billy Chandler, the chief base trainer, said: “Clayton was in our team for a year and he is part of our family.”

The case is checked by the Jefferson County district prosecutor. Clayton's visit and funeral are planned for Thursday.