KANSAS CITY, Mo. -- Nearly a year to the day after her son was shot to death in Westport, Misty Kirwan kept his case and his memory alive Sunday.

The family gathered for a ceremonial balloon release at the Children's Fountain in North Kansas City, Mo., for Chris Bartholomew.

"Chris was an All-American kid," Kirwan said. "He loved sports. He worked hard. He loved his family. He loved his friends. He'd do anything in the world for you. If you asked him, he'd be there."

On May 20, 2007, Bartholomew, 21, was in front of Walgreens in Westport when someone started shooting. He was caught in the crossfire and later died from his injuries.

"I've gotten messages from total strangers saying even though they didn't know Chris, his death has affected them just because he was a good kid," Kirwan said.

Though Kirwan wants justice for her son, she said even that wouldn't take away her pain.

"It's not going to change anything in my life. My son's still gone, and it's still going to hurt every day, but if I can keep another parent from going through what I am, it'll all be worth it," Kirwan said.

A $30,000 reward is being offered in the case. Anyone with any information is encouraged to call the TIPS Hotline at 816-474-TIPS.