
Tragedy struck Jacksonville's Westside yesterday when a 7-year-old boy was killed, and a 21-year-old man was seriously injured in what is being described as a gang-related shooting. The child, identified by his mother as Breon Allen, and the man, believed to be a cousin, were leaving a house on the 2200 block of Commonwealth Avenue around 5 p.m. when they were suddenly attacked by multiple shooters, reported First Coast News.
Witnesses described hearing more than 20 gunshots, with one neighbor recounting the chilling cry, it's a little boy! The Jacksonville Sheriff's Office stated that multiple homes were struck by gunfire during the incident. Desperate to have prevent further violence, the community is grappling with the harsh realities of such senseless acts unfolding on their streets, as conveyed in a report by Action News Jax.
According to the Jacksonville Sheriff's Office, the gunmen, who used both rifles and handguns, were traveling in a dark-colored Kia Soul. While emergency services quickly transported both victims to the hospital, young Allen succumbed to his injuries. The man with him remains in critical condition. The Sheriff's Office also noted that the man is believed to be gang-affiliated. "My heart goes out to the family of the victim of this senseless murder. Anyone who callously opens fire on a 7-year-old cannot be allowed to walk the streets of our city. We will not rest until those responsible are held accountable," Sheriff T.K. Waters said, in a statement acquired by News4JAX.
Residents expressed their shock and dismay, noting that the neighborhood had improved in recent years. It's very unfortunate. I know that there is a really big family that lives in the house that unfortunately got targeted today, one neighbor told Action News Jax. Another recalled to News4JAX, witnessing "two people coming out of a black vehicle," one with what appeared to be a shotgun, the other with a handgun, opening fire on the victims. The local community has been left shaken to unequivocally condemn such acts of violence, especially when children are involved. Anyone with information about this shooting is urged to come forward and call 904-630-0500 or 866-844-TIPS.