JENNINGS, Mo. — The mother of the 14-year-old boy stabbed to death near his school in Jennings is opening up for the first time.
Tuesday evening, loved ones gathered for a balloon release in memory of Justin Brooks.
As police continue to search for his killer, one week later, the teenager's mother is finding strength through her community. Monica Green credits her son's school, neighbors and family for helping her get through.
"I keep wanting to wake up and say this is just a horrible dream,” she said. "He didn't live his life."
Her son, 14-year-old Justin Brooks, was stabbed to death last Tuesday on Hord Avenue in Jennings. Green says he was on his way to football practice for Jennings Junior High.
One week later, a crowd of friends and neighbors returned to the scene to remember him. There's a makeshift memorial where the teenager lost his life.
Green says she doesn't know why anyone would have wanted to harm him. Police have not released a motive or any updates on leads.
"He didn't deserve this. He was a good kid,” she said, pointing to the fact that he liked helping others. "He didn't like bullying. He always stood up for people who were getting bullied. Me and his teachers had to get on him about 'Yeah you got to bring it to an adult. You can't just be Superman.' Growing up he always liked Power Rangers and Spider-Man. He wanted to be a superhero."
Brooks also loved sports. He played basketball, football and ran track. Green says he was also a scholar who was recently considering joining a robotics team.
"He's really smart in math and science. He's just really, smart … he always did what I asked him. He was always 'Yes ma'am, no ma'am.' He was very respectful,” she said.
At Tuesday's vigil was a sea of black, red and white balloons -- reflecting his school colors.
Green is comforted by the memories she won't ever forget.
"As soon as I unlock that door, he's like 'Momma where are you going?' I'm like, 'I'm going to work. Where do you think I'm going?' He's like 'OK be safe. I love you.' I'm gonna miss that … every time you ask for a kiss, he's like, 'I don't kiss. I don't kiss,' but he really loves them,” she said with a smile. "I want justice for him. I want justice for him because he didn't deserve this."
Brooks leaves behind eight brothers and sisters. As the family plans his funeral, an online fundraiser is helping cover the expenses. He did not have life insurance. You can find that fundraiser here.