DETROIT – A 15-year-old boy is in custody in connection with the shooting of a 5-year-old boy who was struck by gunfire while riding his bicycle on Detroit’s west side.
Detroit police Chief Todd Bettison provided the update during his weekly Walk A Mile Wednesday community event on July 8, saying the child is recovering and remains in good spirits with his family.
“Thank God he’s recovering,” said Bettison. “He’s in good spirits along with his family.”
The shooting happened Tuesday night at Fargo-Oakfield Playground.
Police said the 5-year-old was riding his bike with his father nearby around 9 p.m. when gunfire erupted.
A bullet struck the child in the arm.
Investigators believe the suspect, who is 15 years old, was responsible for firing the shots.
Bettison said the teenager is being held at the Juvenile Detention Facility while the investigation continues.
Police previously said they believed the teenager had been firing shots into the air before one of the bullets struck the child.
Bettison credited community members for providing information that helped investigators quickly identify the suspect.
“Community support absolutely plays a key in it,” Bettison said. “Community and policing makes an unbeatable team.”
Bettison declined to discuss specific investigative details but said tips from the public were instrumental in the arrest.
When asked whether the suspect’s parents could face charges, Bettison said authorities are not pursuing that option at this time.
Bettison also said juvenile crime and youth gun violence victims are down in Detroit compared with the same period last year, adding that the department will continue its efforts to reduce violent crime through increased patrols and community partnerships.
Police have not announced any charges against the juvenile.
The investigation remains ongoing.