DETROIT, Michigan — A 5-year-old boy was shot in the arm Tuesday night while riding his bike in front of his own home, just steps away from a neighborhood park on Detroit’s west side.
The shooting happened around 8:50 p.m. near the Fargo-Oakfield Playground. The child’s father was outside supervising him at the time.
What Police Say Happened
According to Detroit Police Chief Todd Bettison, someone at the park opened fire, sending multiple shots into the street. One of those bullets struck the young boy in the arm. His father heard the shots — then heard his son fall from his bike.
The child was rushed to the hospital and is expected to be okay. He has since been released.
Investigators believe the shooter was firing randomly, not targeting anyone specifically. A person of interest is described as possibly between 15 and 16 years old and wearing a mask. Police say the individual is known to frequent the area.
“When you fire a weapon, what goes up must come down,” Chief Bettison said, calling the incident “problematic.” He urged parents to know where their children are and stressed that juveniles should never have access to guns.
City Leaders Respond
Detroit Mayor Mary Sheffield called the shooting senseless.
“Every child in Detroit deserves to feel safe riding their bike, playing outside, and simply being a child in their own neighborhood,” she said.
Anyone with information is asked to contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-Speak-Up.
Do you think enough is being done to keep kids safe in Detroit neighborhoods? Share your thoughts in the comments.
