A joyous family gathering turned into a nightmare in Buffalo, New York, on the evening of June 21, 2024 when a shooting incident claimed the life of a three-year-old boy and wounded his seven-year-old sister. The horrific event unfolded around 9:30 p.m.
The victims were identified as Ramone Carter, aged three, and his sister, Jamia Griffin, aged seven. The children were innocently enjoying the family event, with Ramone riding his tricycle and Jamia accompanying him, when the tragedy struck. Reports suggest that the siblings were not the targets of the gunfire.
Ramone was immediately transported to the Erie County Medical Center by police, where he was later declared dead. His sister, who also sustained injuries, is anticipated to make a full recovery. Mayor Byron Brown voiced his heartache over the incident and underscored the growing problem of illicit firearms in the city.
At a press conference, Mayor Brown detailed the horrifying scene, “A three-year-old boy was enjoying a summer evening with his family, riding his tricycle with his seven-year-old sister beside him when suddenly, gunfire broke out, hitting both children.”
Two teenagers, one armed with a revolver and the other with a pistol, have been indicted in relation to the shooting. Erie County’s Acting District Attorney, Michael Keane, announced that the teenagers, aged 14 and 16, are facing charges including murder, attempted murder, assault, and weapons possession.
The identities of the teenagers have not been disclosed due to their minor status. Mayor Brown, during the announcement of the charges, called the incident a case of “babies killing babies.” He further explained that the accused were firing at another person when the children were inadvertently caught in the crossfire.
The mother of the children, Shakenya Griffin, shared the chilling moments following the gunfire. “He ran right to me, and he was full of blood,” she recounted to the press. “I crumpled onto my neighbor’s yard and screamed for someone to call 911.” This chilling narrative has deeply moved community members who are grappling with this senseless act of violence.
Martina Carter, the eldest sister of Ramone, described her little brother as an “amazing kid” who “didn’t harm anyone.” She added, “I could never have imagined that a three-year-old playing outside at a graduation party would be caught in a crossfire, shot, and killed.”
The community has been rallying behind the grieving family, extending their condolences and urging for an end to the recurring violence in the city.
Mayor Brown, along with other city officials, has pledged to intensify efforts to curb the spread of illegal firearms and to ensure the safety of all residents.
