The Montgomery County community is rallying to support the family of Taeyon Malachi Prather, an 18-year-old Gaithersburg resident whose death is being investigated as a homicide. According to the Montgomery County Police Department, officers were called around 7:21 p.m. on Friday, January 2, to the 23600 block of Rolling Fork Way near Damascus after Fire and Rescue responded to a report of a person down and found Prather suffering from an apparent gunshot wound.
A GoFundMe campaign has been created to assist Prather’s mother, Ranesha, as she copes with the loss of her son while supporting her family. Organizers describe Prather as a recent high school graduate who was working two jobs and planning for his future, and say the fundraiser is intended to help cover therapy and allow his mother time away from work as the family grieves.
Police say no suspect is currently in custody, and detectives with the department’s Major Crimes Division are asking anyone with information is asked to contact Crime Solvers of Montgomery County by submitting an anonymous tip online or calling 1-866-411-TIPS (8477); tips leading to an arrest may be eligible for a reward ranging from $250 to $10,000.
“On January 2, 2026 we tragically lost Taeyon Prather, a remarkable young man brimming with love, charisma, and kindness. At just 18 years old, he had not only graduated from high school but was also balancing two jobs while dreaming of a bright future ahead. His life was taken far too soon, leaving a void in the hearts of everyone who knew him.
Taeyon leaves behind his devoted mother, Ranesha, and his younger brother, Jullian. The pain of losing a child is unimaginable, and Ranesha is now facing the overwhelming challenge of mourning her son while supporting her family. The suddenness of this tragedy has made it difficult for her to manage both emotionally and financially.We are raising funds to help Ranesha receive the therapy she needs and to allow her to take additional time away from work to properly mourn Taeyon. Your support will provide comfort and relief during this incredibly difficult time. Any contribution, no matter the size, will make a meaningful difference for Ranesha and her family as they begin to heal from this heartbreaking loss.”
