Memorial to Commemorate Rajaan Bennett

Rajaan Bennett will soon live on forever in downtown Powder Springs.

The Powder Springs Community Task Force and the city are planning to install a memorial bench and plaque next to the fountain in the square for Bennett, an 18-year-old football standout who was killed in a 2010 murder-suicide at his family’s home.

The dedication ceremony is scheduled for 10 a.m. on Sept. 17. Contributions for the bench came largely from Task Force Chairman Jerry Houston and member Michael Rhett.

“He was really a great student at McEachern High School,” Houston said. “He had a lot of influence on his classmates. He was a good football player, but more especially, he was good person.”

Rhett said: “He was a well-liked student athlete in the community, and a lot of people wanted to see something put in memorial to him so it could be an inspiration to the young people.” 

Sometime after midnight on Feb. 18, 2010, Clifton Steger, the 39-year-old ex-boyfriend of Bennett’s mother, arrived at the family’s home with a revolver, CNN reported. He was upset over a recent breakup.

Steger forced Bennett, his sister and mother into a bathroom, according to CNN. The three had brought a phone with them, and Bennett called 911.

Police heard gunshots when they arrived, CNN reported. Steger fatally shot Bennett in the chest then turned the gun on his face and fired.

During his senior season in 2009 at McEachern, Bennett rushed for 1,857 yards and 28 touchdowns, according to ESPN. The 5-foot-11, 210-pound running back was set to play for Vanderbilt on a full scholarship.