Two teenagers (males) have been indicted in connection with a tragic shooting incident that resulted in the death of a 3-year-old boy. The incident occurred on Friday night on Domedion Avenue, and the indictments were announced on Tuesday by Acting Erie County District Attorney Michael Keane.
The two boys, aged 14 and 16, were arraigned on Tuesday, June 25th and have been remanded. Due to their age, their names have not been released to the public. The shooting claimed the life of 3-year-old Ramone Carter and left his 7-year-old sister injured. The siblings were attending an outdoor family gathering when the incident took place, with Ramone riding a tricycle.
Both teenage boys have been charged with second-degree murder, attempted murder, and second-degree assault. Additionally, they have been separately charged with second-degree criminal possession of a weapon. According to Keane, one of the boys allegedly had a revolver while the other had a pistol.
The 16-year-old is being charged as an adult and faces a minimum sentence of 15 years to life in prison, with a maximum sentence of 25 years to life. On the other hand, the 14-year-old faces a different sentence due to his age. He could be sentenced to a minimum of 7 1/2 years to life in prison, with a maximum sentence of 15 years to life.
Keane stated that it is believed the boys were not targeting Carter and his sister specifically, but rather another young person. He expressed his alarm at the involvement of teenagers in such a tragic incident, emphasizing the unfortunate state of society. Keane assured that the prosecution will pursue the case to the fullest extent of the law despite the defendants' young age. He acknowledged the devastating loss suffered by the innocent child's family who will have to endure the pain and grief caused by this senseless act of violence.
Keane declined to comment on the motive behind the shooting and did not disclose whether the alleged shooters have a criminal history. However, he expressed his belief that the boys had the intention to fire the guns. The investigation into the incident is ongoing, and further details may emerge as the case progresses.
Buffalo Mayor Byron Brown also weighed in on the tragic incident, urging the community to continue reaching out to youth and providing safe spaces for them. He emphasized the importance of parents paying attention to their children's activities and being aware of what they possess.
"What makes this even more tragic is that those who are charged with this crime are 14 years old and 16 years old. So literally, babies killing babies," Mayor Brown said. He expressed concern over the fact that children had access to guns and were willing to use them indiscriminately.
Buffalo Police Commissioner Joseph Gramaglia expressed gratitude to the community and witnesses for their assistance in the investigation.
The two teenagers are scheduled to return for a pre-trial conference on July 24th. They are currently being held without bail in the custody of the Erie County Youth Services Center.