The sister of Jaylin Theodore Hartless says the family is struggling to process the sudden loss of the 21-year-old Alexandria man who was fatally shot Friday morning in Fairfax County’s Woodlawn area.
“Friday, 9/19, our beloved Jaylin Theodore Hartless was taken from us way before his time, at 21 years young,” Brianna Hartless wrote on a GoFundMe page established to help cover funeral expenses. “We just overcame a family battle with our sister, and now having to bury our brother is the most shocking and sad thing my family has ever faced.”
Known to many as “Paper Route,” Hartless was described by his sister as “a loving brother, amazing uncle, and a devoted son.” She emphasized that he was “soooo much more” to the family, saying “no words can describe this pain of having such a light ripped from us.”
The timing of the tragedy has compounded the family’s grief. Brianna Hartless explained that the family had recently navigated a serious health crisis with another sibling. “We almost lost our sister, to turn around and have to bury our brother moments after her return. Hurts beyond measure,” she wrote.
Hartless was found shot in the upper body next to his vehicle in the 3400 block of Buckman Road around 4:45 a.m. Friday, after officers responded to reports of vehicle tampering. Fairfax County police have said the shooting does not appear to be random and are offering a $5,000 reward for information leading to an arrest.
In addressing speculation about the circumstances of her brother’s death, Brianna Hartless wrote: “There are many stories surrounding his death, and those who matter most know the truth. That’s all that matters.”
The GoFundMe campaign seeks $12,000 to provide what the family calls “a proper send-off” for Hartless. “His soul is already with our Heavenly Father, but we need to give him a proper send-off,” Brianna Hartless wrote. “We, the Hartless family, appreciate any and all donations to help us lay our young king to rest properly.”
As of Monday afternoon, the fundraiser had raised $6,777 from 79 donations, reaching 56% of the goal. The family said they will release funeral information once they gather the necessary funds.
The family has asked for privacy during their mourning period. “In this time, please respect our family’s privacy and give us time to mourn without being questioned by everyone,” Brianna Hartless wrote. “We all are hurting, just give us some time.”
