DES MOINES, Iowa—Ahmir Jolliff dashed out of his home in Perry Thursday morning, eager to see his friends on the first day back to school after winter break.
It was vintage Ahmir—known as “Smiley” around his house—an 11-year-old whirlwind of cheerful activity. He kept a trunk of toys unlocked in the front yard so anyone could play with them, his mother said. He loved soccer, played the tuba, and sang in choir. He had a habit of touching people on their shoulder and asking them how their day was.
