Children shot dead at family reunion in Buffalo

(BUFFALO, NY) — A 3-year-old boy was killed and his 7-year-old sister was injured after being struck by gunfire during a family gathering in Buffalo, New York, officials said.

Police responding to the incident Friday evening transported the boy to hospital, where he was pronounced dead.

Her sister suffered abrasions but is expected to recover, according to police.

“Last night was a very tragic night for our community,” Buffalo Police Commissioner Joseph A. Gramaglia said at a news conference Saturday.

Gramaglia said the shooting was not related to the family reunion.

“It was a warm night with a lot of people outside, and the gunshots had nothing to do with the gathering,” he said. “These children were just enjoying a summer evening when tragedy struck. »

“A 3-year-old kid riding his tricycle, having fun with his family members on a hot summer night, his 7-year-old big sister right next to him, and gunshots ring out out of nowhere. And children are being hit by gunfire,” said Buffalo Mayor Byron Brown.

Gramaglia praised the speed with which officers responded to the shooting, saying they arrived on the scene “very quickly.”

According to Erie County Prosecutor Michael Keane, the mother of the two children is a well-known member of the community who is active in Most Valuable Parents, a local organization focused on improving safety in Buffalo.

“She is a strong woman, who constantly works with other families to keep our children safe,” he said. “And now this tragedy hits his own family. »

Police have not said whether one or more persons of interest have been identified as of Sunday afternoon and are encouraging anyone with information about the shooting to come forward.

A weapon found at the scene is currently being tested, police said.

“We need the community to come together and help us stop this violence,” Gramaglia said. “Our thoughts are with the families of these children and we will do everything in our power to ensure justice for this senseless act. »

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