Jefferson Forest High School football alum shot and killed in North Carolina

(WSET) — Family and friends of a former Jefferson Forest High School alum are shocked and saddened after learning he was killed in North Carolina.

Anthony Zellars, also known as “AJ,” was murdered last Tuesday at an apartment complex in Charlotte, North Carolina.

The 29-year-old was working as a parking attendant when he was shot and killed.

Growing up, Zellars played football at Jefferson Forest High School.

His coach, Don Rice, will forever remember his beloved player.

“His smile was infectious. He was a leader all the way. I just can’t imagine how anyone would want to take him away from anyone,” Rice said.

Rice said this loss was devastating, but knew his legacy would live on.

“I will tell the players I coach now when we talk about someone like AJ, it was always about the team, it was never about him,” Rice said.

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Zellars later graduated from Radford University.

While attending school there, he worked at Sharkey’s restaurant.

Harrison Lima worked with him.

“When I called and heard he was shot, that’s it. I’ll be honest because how could anyone do something like that to such a nice, healthy person,” Lima said.

Lima says he hopes for healing and support for friends and family in the coming weeks.

“I hope they find out who did this and I hope his family is okay because I know they are more shocked than we are,” Lima said.

Zellar’s family sent WSOC-TV in Charlotte this statement that reads in part:

“AJ had a loving spirit and took pride in working hard to provide for his family. AJ has had a tremendous impact on many lives… our hearts are broken as we cope with this tragedy.”

Charolette-Mecklenburg Police said this is under investigation and there have been no arrests at this time.