Brandon Ware and William Wheeler Charged with First-Degree Murder in Heartbreaking Detroit Playground Shooting That Took Lives of Samir Grubbs and Daviyon Shelmonson-Bey
The early evening of June 27, 2025, was meant to be a joyful and carefree time in Detroit’s east side, especially at Skinner Playfield — a small but treasured neighborhood park nestled near Denby High School. Laughter, community, and the sounds of bouncing basketballs filled the warm summer air as families came together under the fading sunlight, a scene so familiar to those who call this resilient area home.
But what should have been a peaceful summer evening turned into one of the most heartbreaking days the city has experienced this year.
In a horrifying act of violence that shocked Detroit and the nation, 4-year-old Samir Grubbs and 18-year-old Daviyon Shelmonson-Bey lost their lives in a drive-by shooting while at the playground. Prosecutors allege that Brandon Ware and William Wheeler are responsible for the attack that ended these two young lives far too soon.
The two have now been formally charged with multiple felonies, including two counts of first-degree murder, eight counts of assault with intent to murder, and a series of felony firearm charges. Authorities believe the shooting stemmed from a longstanding dispute, possibly involving gang-related tensions, though the investigation is still ongoing.
A Joyful Evening Shattered
It was just after 7 p.m. when the shots rang out across the park, sending families scrambling for safety. Witnesses reported hearing dozens of gunshots as a vehicle sped past the area where children were playing and young adults were gathered.
In the aftermath of the shooting, responders arrived quickly, but the devastation was already done. Samir Grubbs, a preschooler whose smile had become familiar to many who frequented Skinner Playfield, was caught in the crossfire. He died from his injuries shortly after.
Daviyon Shelmonson-Bey, a recent high school graduate known for his kindness, was also struck. He was pronounced deceased at the scene. Six others, including several minors, suffered various injuries and were transported to local hospitals, some with serious but non-life-threatening conditions.
What made the violence even more unbearable was the complete disregard for the innocence of those present — toddlers, parents, teenagers, and neighbors simply trying to enjoy a summer evening.
Community in Shock and Mourning
The shooting sent ripples of grief and anger through the community. In the days that followed, Skinner Playfield transformed from a lively meeting place to a site of mourning. A growing memorial now lines the park fence — stuffed animals, handwritten notes, candles, flowers, and photographs of Samir and Daviyon placed gently by loved ones and strangers alike.
Neighborhood residents held vigils and prayer circles, their faces lit by candlelight and united in sorrow. Local pastors spoke of the sanctity of life, while activists renewed calls for investment in community safety, youth programs, and trauma support. The atmosphere was somber, but it was also filled with quiet defiance — a declaration that these lives mattered and would not be forgotten.
“We shouldn’t have to bury our babies,” said one mother at the vigil. “We shouldn’t have to explain to our children why they’re afraid to play outside.”
Investigative Breakthrough
According to law enforcement, a coordinated and swift investigation led to the arrest of Brandon Ware, 19, and William Wheeler, 18, both Detroit residents. The charges followed days of gathering surveillance footage, ballistics analysis, and multiple witness interviews.
Police Chief James White confirmed that investigators believe the shooting was targeted, although the full scope of the motive remains under investigation. What is clear, however, is that neither Samir nor Daviyon were the intended targets. They were simply in the wrong place at the worst possible time.
Chief White also praised the courage of witnesses who stepped forward with vital information, calling it an act of bravery that helped bring the suspects into custody. “This community wants peace. People are tired of the violence. And when we work together, we can get justice,” he said.
Prosecutors Vow Full Accountability
Wayne County Prosecutor Kym Worthy emphasized the gravity of the case during a press conference. “A 4-year-old child and an 18-year-old young man lost their futures to senseless violence. This is not just unacceptable — it is an atrocity,” she said.
Worthy vowed that the prosecution would pursue the full extent of the law to hold those responsible accountable. If convicted of the multiple first-degree murder charges, Ware and Wheeler could face life in prison without parole.
Additionally, each faces several counts of assault with intent to murder for the other individuals injured during the drive-by, as well as felony firearm charges related to the illegal use of a weapon in the commission of a violent crime.
Both men were arraigned in 36th District Court and ordered held without bond. They are scheduled to return to court for a probable cause hearing later this month.
A City Searching for Healing
Detroit is no stranger to the challenges of gun violence, but each tragedy like this reopens wounds and reminds residents of the urgent need for change. While law enforcement continues their work, community organizers have rallied together to address the underlying factors that contribute to such violence.
Organizations like Detroit Heals Detroit and Ceasefire Detroit have called for increased mental health resources, mentorship programs, and conflict-resolution training to address issues before they escalate.
“These boys didn’t start here — this was the result of long-standing pain, trauma, and broken systems,” said one community organizer. “We need to look deeper. We need to save the next generation before they’re lost too.”
Skinner Playfield, which once stood as a symbol of hope and unity for local families, is now a sacred site of remembrance. Plans are already underway to rename a portion of the park or build a permanent memorial to honor the young lives lost there.
Remembering Two Bright Lights
The heartbreak is most profound for the families of the victims.
Samir Grubbs, only four years old, was described as a bright-eyed boy with a contagious laugh and an imagination that could light up a room. His family remembers him as a joyful child who loved superheroes, cartoons, and following his older cousins around the park. “He brought joy wherever he went,” his grandmother said tearfully. “He didn’t deserve this. He was just a baby.”
Daviyon Shelmonson-Bey, 18, had just graduated from high school and was looking forward to starting an apprenticeship in the fall. Family and friends recall his gentle demeanor, his loyalty to his peers, and his dream of becoming a welder. His mother said, “He was my rock. He was finally finding his path, and now it’s just… gone.”
Both families have asked for privacy but have also called on the community to stay united and demand meaningful change in memory of their loved ones.
A Larger Call to Action
As news of the shooting and arrests spread, local and national leaders have weighed in, condemning the violence and urging renewed focus on prevention.
Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer expressed her sorrow in a statement, saying, “No family should have to experience the unbearable pain of losing a child to violence. My heart is with the families of Samir and Daviyon. We must do more to keep our communities safe.”
The shooting has also prompted fresh discussions about gun legislation, youth outreach, and the critical importance of safe spaces for children in underserved neighborhoods.
Some advocates are pushing for stricter regulations on firearms, while others emphasize the need for investment in the community — education, housing, and economic opportunities that can steer young people away from dangerous paths.
Moving Forward in Memory
Even as the suspects await their day in court, the greater Detroit community continues to mourn, support one another, and work toward healing. Teachers, social workers, clergy, and parents are all asking the same question: What more can be done to stop this?
The answer, as many see it, lies in a united front — one that honors the lives lost not just through words, but through action, compassion, and unwavering commitment to building a safer future.
In the midst of unimaginable grief, the names of Samir Grubbs and Daviyon Shelmonson-Bey will not fade. They will be remembered not for the violence that stole them away, but for the love they inspired in life and the change their memory may help bring.
As candles flicker beneath their photographs at Skinner Playfield, the message is clear: Their lives mattered. And this community will not forget.
