Student killed at party

Written By:
Gheude Hare

Published:
Nov. 11 2009

Students around Montgomery County are mourning the loss of former James Hubert Blake student Aaron Brice. Brice, 19, was found by Howard County police in a driveway of a rented-out house at a Halloween party in Columbia on October 31 along with injured 22-year-old Nathaniel Quick who was found in the basement . Police said they received multiple calls from partygoers in the 11500 block of Manorstone Lane around 1:15 a.m. about gunshots being fired.
Howard County police said two men have been charged with the shooting. Twenty-two-year-old Devin O’Brian Dixon of Elkridge has been charged with murdering Brice and the attempted murder of Quick. Police say Quick may be paralyzed as a result to the injuries sustained from the shooting. Police say 21-year-old Dean Schroyer, also of Elkridge, drove the car in which the two fled the party and has been charged as an accessory.  The motive for the crime is still being investigated. 
“I saw Aaron the night before he died. Even though I hadn’t known him for long he was one of the funniest people I know,” junior Teja Wright said.
The loss of Brice hit the Springbrook community especially hard. Brice has many friends and family members including his sister, Aaliyah Brice, at Springbrook. They all agree that he was a great friend and died before his time.
“Aaron was a very good guy, fun to be around. I worked with him this past summer and being with him was fun; [he] always had me laughing,” senior Lisette Lopez said.
Other friends remember Brice’s affability and friendly personality.
“He liked to joke around a lot. I couldn’t believe when I found out,” senior Michelle Salinas said.
Students have learned important life lessons through this occurrence.
“Don’t take things for granted. I’m sorry he had to leave us so early,” Wright said.
Teachers are also sympathetic towards everyone involved in the tragic event.
“I feel  sorry for everyone involved,” English teacher David Nicholson said.
Brice  is survived by his mother, father and sister.