PORTSMOUTH, Va. – A doorbell camera captured the chilling aftermath of a fatal shooting involving a 10-year-old boy in broad daylight in Portsmouth. The incident, which occurred on Friday, has left the community in shock.
Authorities have arrested 31-year-old Shawnday Ross in connection to the tragedy, charging her with contributing to the delinquency of a minor. A person of interest, 26-year-old Cleon Deonte Banks, remains at large and is considered armed and dangerous according to police reports.
The Portsmouth police responded to a call on Farragut Street around 6:15 p.m. regarding a shooting. Tragically, upon arrival, they found the young boy with a life-threatening gunshot wound. Despite efforts, the child succumbed to his injuries at the hospital.
John Morin-Leidig and Jennifer Dunleavy, whose doorbell camera captured the sounds of gunfire, recounted the terrifying ordeal. The footage showed a group of children fleeing down the street as gunshots rang out, prompting Morin-Leidig to describe the incident as resembling an active shooter situation.
Police Chief Stephen Jenkins expressed his outrage over the loss of another young life due to disputes settled with guns in the neighborhood. The tragic event has spurred reactions from community leaders and organizations dedicated to preventing youth violence.
Darrell Redmond, founder of Give Back 2 Da Block, attended a youth violence prevention gala in Hampton when news of the shooting broke. Witnessing the devastation firsthand, he spoke of the profound impact on the community and the deep pain felt by all those affected.
The heart-wrenching loss of a child, coupled with the senseless violence that plagues neighborhoods, has left residents shaken and searching for answers. As the investigation continues, the community mourns the loss of a young life, reflecting on the consequences of escalating disputes with fatal consequences. Stay tuned for updates on this developing story.