Over the past year and a half, many people have asked me if there have been any updates in Shawn's case.
The answer is yes.
There have been many developments, but very few answers.
Justice Kai James
Recently, another young Job Corps student, Justice Kai James, lost his life at Turner Job Corps in Georgia.
For a brief moment, the story gained attention. Students protested, shared their concerns publicly, and demanded answers.
Then, just as quickly as it appeared...
The story faded from the headlines.
That has been one of the hardest parts of this journey.
When my son, Shawn Lee Fortune, died at Pittsburgh Job Corps on February 26, 2025, there was little public attention. Today, the loudest voices speaking for Justice Kai are again the students themselves.
Families should not have to carry these stories alone.
Where We Stand Today
Since Shawn's death, I have continued requesting records from every agency involved.
Department of Labor
I have obtained investigative records and surveillance footage from the U.S. Department of Labor.
The investigation documented multiple violations of federal policies and procedures at Pittsburgh Job Corps.
I have also received surveillance videos showing portions of Shawn's final days. Although the videos were heavily redacted and contained no audio, they have helped me begin comparing documented timelines with witness statements and official reports.
Additional Department of Labor records remain pending.
Pennsylvania Right-to-Know
The City of Pittsburgh denied my Right-to-Know appeal.
However, during that process, the City's attorney, Cade Richmond, submitted a sworn statement explaining that many of the records I requested, including 911 records, dispatch records, and CAD reports, are maintained by Allegheny County, not the City.
The Pennsylvania Office of Open Records, through Appeals Officer Kevin McCarthy, ultimately denied my appeal under the RTKL but also pointed me toward another legal avenue: Pennsylvania's Crime Victim Right of Access law.
Following his guidance, I have begun pursuing records through that process while my request to Allegheny County remains under review.
Medical Examiner
I continue waiting for additional responses and records from the Allegheny County Medical Examiner's Office.
Every document helps build a more complete understanding of Shawn's final hours.
Maryland Wellness
I have also continued pursuing Shawn's medical and mental health records from Maryland Wellness.
After months of waiting, they have now responded and explained that they require court-issued documentation establishing legal authority before releasing his records.
That process is now underway.
Attorney Search
Over the past several weeks, I have consulted with numerous medical malpractice and wrongful death law firms in Maryland.
While several firms have declined representation, I continue working with attorneys who are reviewing records and evaluating whether Maryland Wellness met the appropriate standard of care before Shawn was sent to Pittsburgh Job Corps.
The search continues.
My Spiritual Reflection
Many of you know that my faith has carried me through this journey.
During this waiting season, I completed two symbolic Tree of Life readings as a personal spiritual exercise.
Spread on Buddy Love (case manager)
These readings are not evidence and are not meant to replace the facts, records, or official investigations. They simply reflect my own spiritual reflections while I continue seeking documented answers.
Themes that emerged repeatedly included:
* sudden disruption,
* institutional breakdown,
* isolation,
* overwhelming burdens,
* conflicting accounts,
* hidden truths,
* and an unresolved search for justice.
Whether someone believes in tarot or not, I share these reflections because they mirror how this journey has often felt emotionally: a long search for clarity while many questions remain unanswered.
Why I Continue
This petition has never been about asking people to accept my conclusions.
It has always been about asking for transparency.
Every record matters.
Every unanswered question matters.
Every family deserves a complete and honest investigation when a loved one dies while entrusted to the care of an institution.
Justice is not only about accountability after tragedy.
Justice is about making sure no other family has to spend years searching for answers that should have been available from the beginning.
Thank you to everyone who continues to stand with Shawn, to share his story, to sign this petition, and to believe that every young person's life deserves dignity, transparency, and truth.
With gratitude,
Trishawnna Dandridge the mother of Shawn Lee Fortune
Augusta Georgia teens from jobcorp speak out about Justice Kai James