DETROIT — Community Grieves After 4-Year-Old Killed in Triple Shooting Near Skinner Park
A heartbreaking tragedy unfolded on Detroit’s east side Friday evening as gunfire shattered the calm of a summer day, claiming the life of a 4-year-old boy and an 18-year-old man, and injuring a 17-year-old near Skinner Park, close to Duchess Street and Britain Avenue, not far from Denby High School.
The shooting occurred around 6:21 p.m. on June 27, during what should have been an ordinary evening in a neighborhood park where families and children gather to enjoy the warmth of summer. Instead, the area is now the site of profound grief and disbelief as the community grapples with another senseless act of violence.
According to Detroit Police Chief Todd Bettison, emergency responders arrived to find a devastating scene. An 18-year-old man was pronounced dead at the scene, while the 4-year-old child, who had suffered a gunshot wound to the back, was rushed to the hospital where he was later pronounced dead. A 17-year-old male was also shot but is expected to recover, as his injuries were described as non-life-threatening.
“This is a preliminary investigation,” Chief Bettison said during a press briefing near the scene. “We have homicide detectives canvassing the neighborhood, reviewing surveillance from doorbell and business cameras, and actively speaking with witnesses. Our hope is to bring swift justice for this child and the others affected.”
At least two persons of interest are currently in custody, based on descriptions provided by eyewitnesses and the initial 911 caller. Authorities believe they may have apprehended the individuals responsible, though Bettison stressed the investigation is still in its early stages.
The tragic loss of the 4-year-old boy has rocked the city, triggering waves of anguish and outrage. Chief Bettison, visibly emotional, addressed the media and community directly.
“Anytime a 4-year-old is fatally wounded, it hits hard. All life is valuable, but this one particularly disturbs me,” he said. “This was a park on a hot June day. We expect children to be outside playing. Our parks are meant to be places of safety and joy. The park is now empty—but we will not rest until we find out exactly what happened and hold those responsible accountable.”
The names of the victims have not yet been publicly released as police work to notify all next of kin.
The incident has ignited renewed calls from community leaders and city officials for action on gun violence, especially in neighborhoods where children live and play. City council members, neighborhood associations, and anti-violence activists have begun organizing vigils and support resources for the families affected.
Local residents described the moments following the shooting as “chaotic” and “terrifying,” with parents grabbing their children and rushing away from the gunfire. Many were left traumatized.
“This was a baby,” said one nearby resident, tears in her eyes. “A baby didn’t deserve this. We need to do better. All of us.”
The Detroit Police Department is urging anyone with information—no matter how minor it may seem—to contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-SPEAK-UP or the Detroit Homicide Section. Officials say community cooperation will be key in bringing justice to the victims.
As Detroit mourns this devastating loss, one truth remains tragically clear: the epidemic of gun violence has again stolen innocent lives and scarred another neighborhood. But through unity, resolve, and relentless pursuit of justice, the city hopes to honor the memory of a life taken far too soon.
This is a developing story. Further updates will follow as new information becomes available.
