Heartbreaking details have emerged from the mass shooting at Apalachee High School in Winder, Georgia, where 14-year-old Mason Schermerhorn was among the four victims killed. During the chaos, Mason, who was autistic, texted his mother from a restroom to let her know he was hiding. Tragically, that was his final message.

Youth minister Ronald Clark, who rushed to help at the scene, tried to reassure Mason’s mother, only to later confirm her worst fear. He described Mason as joyful and kind, someone who lit up every room he entered.

Mason’s sister, Alanna Wallace, also spoke out, remembering her brother as loving and protective. Despite her grief, she’s honoring his memory by sharing his positivity and leaning on support from friends.