WINSTON-SALEM, N.C. — Winston-Salem police said a 7-year-old was shot inside a home and a 12-year-old was injured at East 24th Street just after midnight Wednesday.
Officers received a notification from the ShotSpotter system.
Neighbors say several kids live inside the house that the child was shot in. Officers believe the shooting was targeted.
Joseph Patterson lives a few doors down. As a dad, this news hits home.
“My kids play with them; that’s the crazy part. My kids play with them, and they all be on that trampoline and having fun and stuff," Patterson recalled.
When officers arrived at the scene, they found a 7-year-old suffering from two gunshot wounds: one to the torso and one to the hand.
Several bullet holes can be seen through the walls, doors, windows, and cars.
Thomas Davis has lived in the area for the past two years; he says scenes like these are becoming the new normal.
“Shootings happen every day, every day over here!" Davis exclaimed.
Police said the seven-year-old was taken to a nearby medical facility where they had surgery. Police also say the child is listed in critical but stable condition.
Police say the 12-year-old was taken to the hospital for treatment and released after.
Winston-Salem councilwoman, Annette Scippio calls gun violence evil chaos.
"Adults and teens must not accept chaos as the normal way of life. We must stop making excuses for unacceptable behavior and boldly state that we want safe neighborhoods and streets throughout this city and be willing to put resources in weeding out the evil that besets us. I firmly believe that Law enforcement plus people power and the power of respect and love for humanity can bring about peace and civility over time," Scippio released in part of a statement.
No arrests have been made at this time.
This investigation is ongoing.
The Winston-Salem Police Department is asking for the public’s assistance in this case. Anyone with any information regarding this incident or similar crimes is asked to call the Winston-Salem Police Department at 336-773-7700, Crime Stoppers at 336-727-2800, or En Español 336-728-3904.
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