Baton Rouge, Louisiana — The family of Anthony “AJ” Wesley Jr. has broken their silence following the fatal shooting of the 29-year-old father, saying he never stopped fighting to remain a part of his children’s lives.

Wesley was found shot to death on a sidewalk outside the Jefferson Lakes Apartments on Jefferson Highway in the early morning hours of March 22. East Baton Rouge Parish Sheriff’s Office deputies responded around 5:50 a.m. and discovered his body with multiple gunshot wounds.

Riddick Franklin, 32, the current boyfriend of Wesley’s ex-girlfriend, was arrested the same day and charged with second-degree murder, illegal use of a weapon, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, and obstruction of justice. Surveillance video allegedly showed Wesley being shot from behind, with the shooter then standing over him and firing additional rounds.

Hope Jackson, 29, the mother of Wesley’s two children and Franklin’s girlfriend, was later arrested and charged as a principal to second-degree murder. Court records show Wesley had recently filed petitions seeking changes to child support, visitation, and custody, with a hearing approaching. Investigators allege the killing was tied to the ongoing custody dispute.

Wesley’s mother and family have described him as a devoted father who spoke to his children every day, helped with homework, and never gave up on being present in their lives. They say the loss has left them devastated.

Both suspects remain in custody as the case proceeds through the legal system.

Sources: East Baton Rouge Parish Sheriff’s Office affidavits and statements, Louisiana First News, WBRZ, and Unfiltered with Kiran reports