Teen admits to slaying on CTA bus

Well two years later a very sad chapter is near its close. While Blair Holt's parent may well continue their campaign to end urban violence, finally the two who were accused of being involved in Holt's murder finally stand trial:

A 17-year-old boy scheduled to stand trial today in the fatal shooting of Julian High School student Blair Holt on a CTA bus in May 2007 pleaded guilty today to two counts of first-degree murder and two counts of aggravated battery.

Michael Pace, who was accused of pulling the trigger on the 16-year-old Holt, faces 45 years to life in prison for the murder charges and an additional 6 to 30 years for the aggravated battery charges, prosecutors said today. 

On Monday, Holt's co-defendant, 17-year-old Kevin Jones, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit murder and was sentenced to 10 years in prison. He was originally charged with first-degree murder and other charges. He was accused of a giving a .40-caliber handgun used in the slaying to Pace.

Holt was riding on a CTA bus near 103rd Street and Lowe Avenue when Pace, a reputed gang member, opened fire on a gang member with whom he had long feuded. Holt was killed as he used his body to shield a friend, authorities said. Four others were injured.

Now, my sincere hope is to be sure that not another young life is cut down senselessly in an act of violence.