A family gathering in Buffalo, New York turned tragic on Friday night, June 21, 2024 when gunfire erupted, killing a three-year-old boy and injuring his seven-year-old sister. The incident occurred around 9:30 p.m.
Ramone Carter, just three years old, was riding his tricycle alongside his older sister, Jamia Griffin, at a family event when the shooting occurred. According to the local media, the siblings were not the intended targets of the gunfire.
The young boy was rushed to the Erie County Medical Center by police officers, where he was later pronounced dead. His sister, who was also hit, is expected to recover fully. “I’m heartbroken today,” Mayor Byron Brown said, highlighting the pervasive issue of illegal guns on the streets.
The mayor expressed his sorrow at a news conference, describing the scene: “A three-year-old boy was enjoying a summer evening with his family, riding his tricycle with his seven-year-old sister beside him, when suddenly, gunfire broke out, hitting both children.”
Two teenagers, one with a revolver and one with a pistol, have been charged in connection with the shooting. Acting Erie County District Attorney Michael Keane announced that a 14-year-old and a 16-year-old were indicted and are facing charges including murder, attempted murder, assault, and weapons possession.
Their names have not been released due to their ages. “Babies killing babies,” Mayor Brown remarked during the announcement of the charges. He added that the suspects had been firing at another individual when the children were caught in the crossfire.
Shakenya Griffin, the mother of the two children, remembered the terrifying moments after the shots rang out. “He ran right to me, and he was full of blood,” she told the media. “I crumpled onto my neighbor’s yard and screamed for someone to call 911.” Her anguish and shock resonate with many in the community who are struggling with this senseless act of violence.
Martina Carter, Raymone’s eldest sister, described him as an “amazing kid” who “didn’t harm anyone.” She added, “I could never have imagined that a three-year-old playing outside at a graduation party would be caught in a crossfire, shot, and killed.”
The community has rallied around the grieving family, with many expressing their condolences and calling for an end to the violence that plagues the city.
Mayor Brown and other city officials have vowed to continue their efforts to combat the proliferation of illegal firearms and to ensure the safety of all residents.
