A picture-perfect spring evening in Queens, New York, quickly took a tragic turn when a gunshot hit 15-year-old Jaden Pierre. Authorities say cameras reportedly captured the incident at Roy Wilkins Park in St. Albans on April 16 shortly after a large group of kids attacked Pierre, before he was hit with a single shot.
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Police Launch Investigation Following Deadly Shooting At New York Playground
Per ABC News, residents said about 300 teenagers swarmed Roy Wilkins Park in St. Albans for a planned water balloon fight on April 16. During the chaos, several kids allegedly attacked Jaden Pierre before an individual fired a single shot at him around 6 p.m. local time. Pierre ended up suffering a gunshot wound to the chest on the basketball court. First responders rushed him to Jamaica Hospital in critical condition, but he later died from his injuries. According to amNewYork, Jaden’s family plans to hold a vigil for him at the park on Monday, April 20. Attorney General Letitia James, Donovan Richards, and Jumaane Williams are reportedly set to attend the event.
Authorities Continue To Search For The Suspect
Police put up posters as they search for the alleged gunman, who still remains on the loose. They also released photos of the person wanted in connection with the shooting. The images show the suspect with short dreadlocks, wearing a light gray printed tracksuit and a black backpack. Investigators still don’t know the motive, but reports suggest possible gang ties. Officials are offering a $3,500 reward for any information that leads to an arrest.
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Jaden’s Family & New York Officials React To His Tragic Passing
Following his tragic passing, Jaden’s uncle reacted to the news. He said Jaden was a good kid who lived a regular life. “He was just a regular kid,” Jaden’s uncle said. When asked if his nephew wanted to play professionally when he grew up, he smiled and added, “He was short.”
New York Attorney General Letitia James also shared a statement on X (formerly Twitter) about Jaden’s passing. She called the incident “a senseless act of gun violence.”
“My heart is heavy tonight after we lost a 15-year-old to a senseless act of gun violence,” James continued, “I’m praying for his family, loved ones, and community. I will continue to work tirelessly every day to end gun violence in New York.”
