A toddler was killed by a stray bullet from a gang-related gunfight while he slept in the back of a car in Oakland, California.
The 23-month-old was asleep in his car seat riding in his mother’s car on Saturday afternoon when the car was struck by gunfire.
Fremont toddler Jasper Wu was rushed to hospital with a head injury but later died from his injuries.
Now his heartbroken family is urging those responsible to come forward and be held accountable for their actions.
His family’s neighbor, Lucy Tovar was stunned to hear the sad news.
“I just can’t believe it. I see the family in front of the house with kids and their mom,” Tovar said, as per ABC7 News.
California Highway Patrol (CHP) says the child was likely caught in the crossfire of a freeway gunfight adding in a statement: “Evidence collected on the northbound side of the freeway may indicate the victims were not targeted and the child passenger was struck by a stray bullet.”
Jasper’s family, who described him as an energetic boy with a big smile, told ABC7 News they want those responsible to surrender.
Oakland City Council member Noel Gallo said he was outraged by the horrific incident.
“The reality is this is insanity. I see it every day, gang activity has risen, especially when it comes to little ones, someone’s family member, it’s unacceptable,” Gallo told ABC7 News.
The CHP is asking for any information that could help catch those involved in the gunfight.
It doesn’t matter whether the victim was targeted or not this is yet another child lost to gun violence which has become an epidemic.
My heart goes out to the family of this sweet boy. May he rest in peace.
Please share in the hope that those responsible can be brought to justice.
