Scholarship fund named for mentor fatally shot

ORLANDO, Fla. (WOFL FOX 35) - The Kiwanis Club has set up a scholarship fund in the name of murder victim Gino Nicholas and given it $100,000 to help minority kids go to college.  The 24-year-old Nicholas was gunned down in April outside of the Carver Park Apartments in Parramore.  

In announcing the scholarship, Tom Porter of the Kiwanis Club says the memory of Nicholas and what he did will live.  "He went away and got his college degree, but he came back to help others in the community. He was doing the right thing, and we want to memorialize his efforts when he was gunned down."

Several members of Gino Nicholas's family showed up at Orlando City Hall for the announcement of the scholarship.  His sister, Naomie Monroe, was touched.  "It brought tears to my eyes, my mother's eyes, my family."

There was a large crowd gathered on that Saturday night in Parramore when a drive by shooter came down the street firing, killing Nicholas and another woman.  Even with several witnesses, there have been no arrests.

Orlando Police Chief John Mina says his detectives will not give up, and are making progress.  "We have gotten some support from this community as far as getting us information. We would just always like a little more information."

Naomie Monroe tells FOX 35 she is happy with the way police are handling the case, but disappointed with what help the community is giving police.   "It's very hurtful. It's very aggravating. It is very frustrating, but I do have faith and I do believe that somebody is going to speak up, that someone, it is going to touch their heart, and they are going to help authorities make an arrest in this case. Because something has to be done, and I personally, and my family, my sister, we are not going to stop until something is, until Gino is brought justice."

Crimeline is offering a $5,000 reward for information in the murder of Gino Nicholas, and tipsters can remain anonymous by calling 800-423-TIPS (8477).