DURHAM, NC – A 4-year-old child is recovering after being injured in a midday shooting Saturday afternoon in Durham. The incident occurred around 1:45 p.m. in the 200 block of East Cornwallis Road, according to a statement from the Durham Police Department.
Details of the Incident
When officers arrived at the scene, they discovered the child had already been rushed to a nearby hospital in a personal vehicle. Police confirmed the child sustained a gunshot wound but is expected to survive.
As of 2:30 p.m., six Durham police vehicles were present at the Cornwallis Road Apartments, a Durham Housing Authority property near the intersection of Cornwallis Road and Weaver Street. The area was cordoned off as investigators worked to gather evidence and interview potential witnesses.
Authorities have not released further details about the circumstances of the shooting or whether any suspects have been identified.
Community Response
The shooting has sparked renewed concerns about gun violence in Durham, particularly as it involves a young child. Residents of the Cornwallis Road Apartments expressed shock and sadness at the incident.
“This is heartbreaking,” said a neighbor who wished to remain anonymous. “We need to find a way to make our neighborhoods safer for our kids.”
Ongoing Investigation
Durham Police have stated that the investigation is ongoing. No arrests have been made at this time, and police are urging anyone with information to come forward.
Those with details about the shooting are encouraged to contact Crime Stoppers at 919-683-1200 or visit durhamcrimestoppers.org. Tipsters remain anonymous, and information leading to an arrest may be eligible for a cash reward.
A Broader Issue
This incident adds to a troubling pattern of gun violence involving children in North Carolina. According to data from the Gun Violence Archive, shootings involving minors have risen significantly in recent years, prompting calls for community action and policy reform.
Local advocacy groups have called for increased resources to address violence in underserved communities, including programs that focus on conflict resolution and youth mentorship.
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