(WWJ) Violence in Detroit is escalating following a spring that put Michigan under stay-at-home orders and during the continuing pressures of a pandemic.
Detroit has had 14 freeway shootings since June 15 plus numerous drive-by and other attacks that have sprayed bullets on victims ranging from a 2-year-old with her mother to an 8-year-old child struck in his bed. Two separate coney island shootings left three dead and several more injured. Three men were shot during a gas station argument. A 67-year-old grandmother was shot in her home last night.
The list goes on and on. Chief James Craig revealed that violent crime is up 7% so far this year over last.
In one incident, a family arrived home at 1 a.m. on the Fourth of July and were sprayed by bullets inside their van by three vehicles that passed by. It happened in Mexicantown, on Homer near Mullane street.
All five members of the family were hit, including mother Maria Gonzalez, 39, who was killed. Father Francisco Gonzalez, 40, was in critical condition and then eventually died. The three children in the back, all boys and aged 15, 12 and 9, were also shot, but are expected to recover.
In this incident, as with the others, police are asking witnesses to come forward, and friends and family are seeking donations to support the Gonzalez' in a Go Fund Me.
They've raised more than $37,000 for the suddenly orphaned boys. DONATE HERE.
"The family is completely devastated with the loss of both Maria and Francisco Gonzalez. The expenses are beginning to pile up for the family as you all may know. It would be very much appreciated if everyone could keep on sharing this story and donating if possible. Please keep the family in prayers as we help to keep them moving forward through this. Thank You," a family member wrote.
Anyone with information should call Detroit Police or Crimestoppers at 1-800 SPEAK UP to leave. Tipsters remain anonymous.