Buddy Harrison was a boxing trainer, mentor, father, and comedian who touched the lives of many people in the DC area. He was known for his work with his son, Dusty Hernandez-Harrison, a welterweight champion and a rising star in the boxing world. He was also known for his generosity, faith, and humor, as he helped many young boxers and community members escape the violence and drugs that plagued his own past. Sadly, Buddy Harrison’s life was cut short on September 25, 2022, when he was shot and killed outside his home in Southeast Washington. His death has left a void in the hearts of his family, friends, and fans, who are mourning the loss of a beloved figure in the DC boxing scene.
The Shooting Incident
According to The Washington Post, Buddy Harrison was attacked around 11:40 a.m. on September 25, 2022, in the 2700 block of 30th Street SE, near Erie Street SE and the Hillcrest Recreation Center. He was pronounced dead at the hospital. Police said they believe Harrison was targeted by up to three suspects who fled in a white Kia Optima sedan. The car was later found burned and abandoned in Maryland. Police released a video of two suspects wanted in connection with the fatal shooting and asked anyone with information to call 202-727-9099 or text 50411.
A Life of Redemption
Buddy Harrison was born on April 4, 1960, in DC, the first of three sons born to Arthur “Dusty” and Jean Marie Harrison. He grew up in Hillcrest, a few blocks away from where he was killed. His father was a mechanic who worked at the Sunoco on Pennsylvania SE; his mother worked at the Curtis Brothers Furniture Store. Buddy Harrison had a troubled childhood and adolescence, as he got involved in drugs and crime at an early age. He spent time in prison for robbery and drug offenses and struggled with addiction for years.
However, Buddy Harrison turned his life around after finding God and boxing. He opened his own gym, Old School Boxing Gym, in Hillcrest Heights, Maryland, where he trained his son and other aspiring boxers. He also became a community servant, volunteering at local churches, schools, and organizations. He mentored many young people who were facing similar challenges as he did and helped them find a positive path through boxing and faith. He was known for his humor and charisma, as he often cracked jokes and made people laugh.
A Legacy of Love
Buddy Harrison’s death has shocked and saddened the DC boxing community, who have paid tribute to him on social media and in person. His son, Dusty Hernandez-Harrison, who has a record of 34-0-1 as a professional boxer, posted a heartfelt message on Instagram, saying “I love you dad you are my hero my best friend my everything I don’t know what I’m gonna do without you.” He also thanked everyone for their support and prayers.
Many other boxers, trainers, promoters, journalists, and fans have expressed their condolences and admiration for Buddy Harrison, calling him a legend, a role model, a friend, and a brother. Some of them include Lamont Peterson, Gary Russell Jr., Barry Hunter, Brian Cohen, Dan Rafael, and Lou DiBella. They praised his dedication to boxing, his passion for helping others, and his love for his son.
Buddy Harrison’s funeral service was held on October 1 at St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church in Southeast Washington. Hundreds of people attended to pay their respects and celebrate his life. His son delivered an emotional eulogy, saying “He taught me everything I know. He taught me how to be a man. He taught me how to be strong.” He also said that his father’s spirit will always be with him in the ring.
Buddy Harrison’s cause of death was a tragic loss for the DC boxing community and beyond. He will be remembered as a boxing trainer, mentor, father, and comedian who overcame adversity and made a positive impact on many lives. He will be missed by all who knew him and loved him. Rest in peace, Buddy Harrison.
