Sema'j Anniversary Event Planned In Joliet

JOLIET, IL - This month marks the one-year anniversary since little Sema'j Crosby was reported missing by her family. Days later, her lifeless body was discovered underneath furniture inside her family's house in Preston Heights. The Will County Coroner's Office pronounced her dead at 1:27 a..m. on April 27.

From the outset, the case has been investigated by the Will County Sheriff's Department, but nobody has been charged in connection with her death. For many months, it was even unclear how she died. Then in September, Coroner Patrick O'Neil issued a press statement revealing that Sema'j's death was being ruled a homicide. According to O'Neil, medical experts determined Sema'jdied from asphyxia at her family's home in the 300 block of Louis Road in Joliet Township.

Now, the Justice For Semaj Action Team has announced plans to hold a community play day event in memory of the little girl who made people smile.

The event will begin at noon on Saturday, April 28, according to the group's Facebook page.

"As we reach the 1-year anniversary of Semaj's tragic death April 27, we are asking the community to join us as we celebrate her incredible impact on our community," the grassroots community organization noted.

The April 28 event will take place at Oak Valley Park in Preston Heights, in close proximity to the house where Sema'j and her family lived. There will be a balloon release, games, activities, a magician, a guitar and song tribute.

"This is a FREE event for children and the community we look forward to seeing you in the Preston Heights neighborhood as we heal and growth together," the Action Team posted on Facebook.

RELATED STORIES:

Grandmother: Sema'j Killed By Her Mother Sheri Gordon

Sema'j Would Have Turned 2 Today

Grandmother, Aunt Deny Involvement In Toddler's Death

Main image via Joliet Patch files, other images via John Ferak/Joliet Patch Editor