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Tyler was found suffering from gunshot wounds in the area of Fremont and Babson Streets in Mattapan around 11:30 a.m. on Sunday, Jan. 29, Boston Police report. He was pronounced dead at the scene.
"We do believe it was targeted. We don't believe it was a random act of violence, but we really don't know for sure yet," Suffolk County District Attorney Kevin Hayden said, according to WCVB.
"It's just a tragic loss for the city to have a teenage boy lost like that," he added.
Tyler was a student at Coakley Middle School in Norwood and was "well-loved" by the community, Superintendent David Thomson said in a statement.
"His bright smile was on display every morning, and he made friends wherever he went," Thomson said. "He was an avid basketball player, and enjoyed sports and being outside."
“This is an extremely difficult time for all, and I encourage anyone who may be having an especially difficult time coping with this news to reach out for assistance," he added.
The school district made counselors available in all school buildings for additional support to students, staff and faculty.
Meanwhile, the investigation into the shooting is ongoing. Anyone with information is asked to contact Boston Police at (617) 343-4470.
Anonymous tips can be made by calling the CrimeStoppers Tip Line at 1 (800) 494-TIPS or by texting the word ‘TIP’ to CRIME (27463).
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