Mom prepares to bury son after he was fatally shot by roommate playing with gun
LAS VEGAS (KSNV) — Nineteen-year-old David Tauiliili was a giver.
He would buy gifts for his little brothers. He would go home nearly every day to check on his grandmother.
Even in death, he was giving back.
Leilani Holmes decided to donate her son’s organs, saving the lives of five people.
“It’s just the worst pain ever. The worst pain. It almost makes me sick inside. Physically. I don’t know what to do,” said Holmes.
A bullet from a handgun pointed at Tauiliili’s head killed him.
RELATED | Woman arrested on murder charges after shooting roommate
It happened Aug. 12 at Alura on Duneville Apartments, near Jones Boulevard and Tropicana Avenue. Police said Tauiliili’s roommate, Maya Santos, was playing with a gun.
“But she didn’t know there was still a bullet in the chamber and she was playing around, pointing it at his head and shooting,” explained Holmes.
It’s a decision that would prove to be fatal. Santos is now facing a murder charge.
It will be up to the Clark County District Attorney to file the charge against her.
“I’m a very forgiving person but this one is going to be really hard for me, because he was so special to me. But, I know I can forgive. I can forgive with the grace of God,” noted Holmes.
Holmes described her son as thoughtful, mindful and loving.
The Clark High School graduate was one of five children.
Tatyana Mara said her brother was always there to lend an ear if she had a problem.
“I love my brother so much and I would do anything in a heartbeat to have him back,” said Mara.
As for Holmes, she doesn’t have a hint of the anger you might expect. Instead, she's showing the power of love, even in her son’s death.
“I miss him. I’m never going to see him again. I’m never going to hug him and kiss him,” said Holmes.
The family has set up a GoFundMe account to help with expenses. If you would like to donate, click here.
