DETROIT (WWJ) A stray bullet struck a 2-year-old child who was watching fireworks with family in front of their home on Detroit’s east side, police said.
“The baby is in temporary serious condition,” Detroit Police Chief Todd Bettison said. “That means the baby is going to survive.”
Police said the shooting happened shortly before midnight on Saturday, July 5, on Marion at Erwin, in the area of I-94 and Van Dyke.
According to Bettison, a group of “juveniles” were playing in the park when an argument escalated to gunfire.
“A stray bullet comes from over a block away and strikes the two-year-old baby in front of their own home,” Bettison said.
Police said they have detained two young people, based on descriptions provided by witnesses, who are considered to be persons of interest in the shooting.
“I’m appalled by it. Upset by it." Bettison told reporters.
Police said they will be stepping up curfew reinforcements throughout Detroit, and officers will be handing out parental responsibility tickets.
“Parents have the responsibility to ensure they know where their children are and that they are supervised,” Bettison said. “After curfew, it’s dangerous.”