DETROIT, MI — A heartbreaking shooting on Detroit’s east side has left the community shattered after a 4-year-old boy and an 18-year-old man were killed in a violent triple shooting near Skinner Park on the evening of June 27. The tragedy unfolded around 6:21 p.m. near Duchess Street and Britain Avenue, close to Denby High School, shaking residents and city officials alike.
Detroit Police Chief Todd Bettison confirmed that officers responded swiftly to multiple 911 calls reporting gunfire. Upon arrival, police found two victims who were rushed to the hospital, while an 18-year-old man was pronounced dead at the scene from a gunshot wound to the chest.
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The most devastating news came shortly thereafter: a 4-year-old boy, an innocent bystander caught in the crossfire, had been fatally shot in the back. His young life, filled with promise and hope, was tragically taken in an instant of senseless violence.
“This is a heartbreaking tragedy,” said Chief Bettison. “We lost a child today—someone with an entire life ahead of him. Our detectives are working urgently to find out who did this and why.”
Police recovered several 9mm shell casings at the scene, with reports indicating that eight shots were fired during the incident. Homicide detectives are actively canvassing the neighborhood, conducting interviews, and reviewing surveillance footage, including doorbell cameras, in an effort to identify suspects and understand the circumstances leading to the shooting.
The condition and identity of the third victim have not been publicly released, and authorities have not confirmed whether this individual was involved in the altercation or was another bystander.
Chief Bettison called on the community for assistance: “Somebody knows something. We need the community’s help to bring justice to these families. Please call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-SPEAK-UP or contact our homicide division directly.”
As the neighborhood mourns, flowers and candles have begun to appear near Skinner Park, serving as quiet memorials to a young boy whose life ended far too soon. The incident underscores the urgent need for renewed efforts to combat gun violence and protect Detroit’s youth.
The city waits — for answers, for justice, and for healing.