GREENVILLE, S.C. (WSPA) -- A vigil and balloon release was held on Sunday to honor the life of a Greenville teen who died last weekend, while family members search for answers.

Friends, family and loved ones of 18-year-old Avias Neal gathered in the parking of Haywood Mall to remember his life.

“We grieve today because a life was tragically taken," Neal's pastor told the crown in attendance. "That's a premature death."

According to Greenville Police, on Neal was found in the mall parking lot on August 3 with a gunshot wound.

Officers said multiple 911 callers said the gunshot wound was self-inflicted.

The 18-year-old was rushed to Greenville Memorial Hospital where he later died.

Neal's mother Lenise Durham told 7NEWS she does not believe her son took his own life.

“Who goes and buy

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