The Tragic Story of Jai ‘Malik’ Wiggins Jr.
Jai ‘Malik’ Wiggins Jr. was just 21 years old when his life was tragically cut short in September 2021. Malik, as he was known to friends and family, had a bright future ahead of him. He was a gifted athlete and musician with big dreams of making it to the NFL one day. But gun violence cruelly robbed him of that opportunity. This is the story of Jai Malik Wiggins Jr. – a young man who deserved so much more.
A Star Athlete and Musician
Malik grew up in Miami, Florida where he quickly established himself as a standout football player. He played as a linebacker and running back for Northwestern Senior High School, showing great skill on both offense and defense. His talents earned him a full scholarship to play football at Independence Community College in Kansas when he graduated high school in 2018.
But football wasn’t Malik’s only passion. He also loved music, especially rapping, and would freestyle with friends and post videos online. His natural charisma and musical giftings led some to say he could have had a career in the entertainment industry. Malik was multi-talented and seemed destined for success, both on and off the field.
Transferring Back Home
After spending a year at the junior college in Kansas, Malik transferred to Florida Memorial University, a historically Black university in Miami. This allowed him to be closer to home and family while continuing his football career. As a sophomore in 2019, he played in 8 games as a linebacker for the Florida Memorial Lions.
Going into his junior year in 2020, Malik was expected to be a leader on defense for the Lions. But the COVID-19 pandemic that year led to the cancellation of the football season. Like many other athletes, Malik lost what would have been a key year of development. But he remained eager to get back on the field his senior year.
NFL Aspirations
According to his high school coach, Malik had set his sights on playing professional football. He had the speed, strength, and football IQ to make it happen. His plan was to have a standout senior season at Florida Memorial in 2021, get noticed by pro scouts, and pursue a career in the NFL.
Tragically, Malik would never get the chance to play his senior year. But those who knew him have no doubt he had the talent and determination to succeed at football’s highest level. He had a bright future ahead of him that was cruelly cut short.
Killed in a Tragic Case of Mistaken Identity
In September 2021, just a month before his 22nd birthday, Malik was back home in Miami visiting his mother. On September 6, he attended a holiday barbecue and was walking home that evening when the unthinkable happened.
According to police reports, Malik was approached by two unknown suspects who opened fire, fatally shooting him in the back. Investigators believe it was a case of mistaken identity and that the shooters thought Malik was somebody else.
Regardless of the circumstances, the incident shook the community. A young man brimming with potential had his life stolen for no reason. Another tragic case of gun violence cutting short a promising future.
Mourning a Life Lost Too Soon
News of Malik’s death sent shockwaves through his community. Friends, family, teammates, and coaches struggled to come to terms with the senseless killing. His mother was left grief-stricken after losing her only child.
At a memorial service, Malik’s coach remembered him as “a kid that was well-loved by everyone. He impacted a lot of people’s lives.” Teammates said he was like a brother to them.
The tragedy was felt especially hard by those who knew just how much potential Malik had. He was described as charismatic, funny, and uplifting. He made those around him better people. For his life to end when he was so young and so full of promise was utterly heartbreaking.
Malik’s loved ones will forever wonder what could have been. But his memory lives on as an inspiration and a cautionary tale about the fragility of life. He had so much to offer the world – if only he had gotten the chance.
