Buffalo, N.Y. — A community is in mourning following the tragic death of 3-year-old Raymone Carter, who was fatally shot in Buffalo while playing outside during a graduation party on a recent Friday night. The young boy, who was soon to celebrate his fourth birthday, was riding a tricycle with his 7-year-old sister when the incident occurred.
According to Buffalo Police, the shooting happened shortly before 9:30 p.m. on Domedion Avenue, where both children were struck by gunfire amidst a festive atmosphere turned chaotic. Despite immediate efforts by police to rush Raymone to ECMC in a patrol car, he succumbed to his injuries at the hospital.
His sister, who also sustained gunshot wounds, was transported by ambulance to Oishei Children’s Hospital. She is currently recovering and expected to fully heal from her physical injuries.
Mayor Byron Brown expressed his fatigue and frustration over having to address such heartbreaking incidents. “It’s profoundly upsetting to continually announce these tragedies in our community,” he stated during a press briefing. The police have interviewed two persons of interest, but no arrests have been made as of yet.
Police Commissioner Joseph Gramaglia clarified that the children were not the intended targets of the shooter. He suggested that the gunfire might have been aimed at another target or was a reckless act into the crowd.
The Carter family is devastated by their loss. Martina Carter, Raymone’s oldest sister, described him as an “amazing kid” who “didn’t do anybody no harm.” “I would have never imagined that a graduation party would lead to such a horrifying outcome,” she said, her voice heavy with grief.
As the Carters face this profound loss, the community has rallied around them, offering support and organizing a vigil to honor Raymone. Monica Webster, representing Mothers Against Violence, expressed a sentiment felt by many: “I’m so tired of being tired. Our babies are dying.”
The tragedy has rekindled discussions on gun violence and safety in community spaces. Darryl Scott Jr. from NYS SNUG, and Victoria Ross, an area activist, both emphasized the need for immediate action to safeguard communities and foster environments where children can play without fear.
“A message that needs to resonate not just here but across Western New York is clear: put the guns down. You’re killing our babies,” Webster implored, voicing the collective heartbreak and anger of the community.
Authorities have urged anyone with information regarding the shooting to come forward, sharing a confidential hotline for tips to ensure those responsible are brought to justice. The incident has left a sorrowful imprint on Buffalo, prompting calls for change and a renewed focus on community safety and the well-being of its youngest residents.