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Family remembers local drummer slain in shooting

Family remembers Thapelo Hill, who was shot in the head outside a pizzeria on Niagara Street last week.

BUFFALO, N.Y. — There are still no answers or arrests in the shooting death of a local drummer.
Thapelo Hill, 22, was shot in the head outside a pizzeria on Niagara Street last week.

Hill died a few days later at ECMC. Police haven't made any arrests in a shooting that they believe occurred after an argument.

Hill had a talent for the arts. He was an African drummer who often performed at Kwanzaa celebrations.

His brother, Amilcar Hill, also known as "DJ Milk" loved the spirit his younger brother had for life. His brother was a drummer, dancer and actor who frequented local stages.

The family believes in the gift of life. Hill's organs were donated to help others.

"I'm a firm believer in you can't take it with you, and it's one of the things we can do to help our community here in times of loss and I just believe that giving is one of the best things you can do if you're trying to heal," Amilcar said.

When it comes to violence, the Hill family is pained to see so many young people dying in Buffalo.

"Considering the size of Buffalo is and considering how much we are related as cousins and friends and families, we are interwoven stronger than a lot of other places, which gives us a unique opportunity to save lives and to make a difference.," Hill said.

"With tragedy can come opportunity and there's a tremendous opportunity here because this will be something that will be relevant right now, it will be part of a conversation," the victim's brother said. "My brother Thapelo, just an incredible light for me, everything you want out of a younger brother in so many ways."

A memorial service for Thapelo Hill will be held in January. It will be a celebration of life filled with music and dance.

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