DETROIT – A 4-year-old boy was killed during a triple shooting on Detroit’s east side.
The shooting occurred on Friday (June 27) at 6:21 p.m. near Skinner Park, which is in close proximity to Duchess Street and Britain Avenue by Denby High School.
Sources told Local 4 that two gunshot victims were found at the scene and transported by medics, while a third victim was privately taken to a Metro Detroit hospital.
Preliminary information from sources said there were several 9MM shell casings recovered from the roadway.
There was a total of eight shots reported in the area that sits on the same intersection.
Detroit police Chief Todd Bettison said among the victims was an 18-year-old man who died at the scene.
Sources said the 18-year-old man was shot in his chest.
Bettison said the 4-year-old boy suffered a fatal gunshot wound to his back.
A 17-year-old boy sustained injuries that are not considered life-threatening.
Sources said he was shot in the leg during the incident.
Police said at least two suspects are in custody as persons of interest, based on descriptions from witnesses and the initial caller.
Officials said they may have apprehended the shooters, but the investigation remains in its early stages.
“This is a preliminary investigation,” said Bettison. “We have homicide detectives canvassing the neighborhood for witnesses and reviewing video from doorbell cameras and other sources. We urge anyone with information to contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-SPEAK-UP or the Detroit homicide section.”
When asked about the presence of children at the park, Bettison noted the timing and setting.
“It’s a park on a hot June day. We expect kids to be here enjoying the space. Our parks across the city are beautiful and well-invested in. The park is empty now, but we will relentlessly work this case,” Bettison said.
Bettison expressed deep sorrow over the loss of the young child.
“Anytime a 4-year-old is fatally wounded, it hits hard. All life is valuable, but this one particularly disturbs me,” Bettison said.
Regarding what led to the shooting, Bettison said it is often the result of disputes escalating to gun violence.
“Typically, it’s an argument or some type of dispute. People with guns want to settle beefs with firearms. We find ourselves here because of that. But it’s early, and we will keep the public updated,” Bettison said.
On the topic of summer violence and potential prevention, Bettison acknowledged the seasonal uptick in crime during hot weather.
“We do see an increase in violence during summer months. Statistically, crime is down overall, but incidents like this don’t feel good,” Bettison said.
The area is designated a Community Violence Intervention (CVI) zone, and community violence interrupters are working to prevent retaliation.
“When something like this happens, there’s potential for retaliation. We’re working to de-escalate and prevent further loss of life. But we will bring the culprits to justice,” Bettison said.
Detroit police Chief Todd Bettison talks triple shooting on Detroit’s east side