Durham, NC – The Durham Police Department is investigating the tragic shooting of a 15-year-old boy, identified as AJ, who was killed Saturday afternoon at the Magnolia Pointe Apartments in the 4800 block of Danube Lane.
Officers responded to reports of a gunshot wound at approximately 2:40 p.m. Upon arrival, they found the victim suffering from a gunshot wound. Emergency Medical Services transported him to a local hospital, where he was pronounced dead.
Investigators placed 20 evidence markers at the scene, indicating the scale of the crime scene. A witness reported that AJ had been playing in the snow at the time of the shooting, further deepening the community’s heartbreak over the senseless tragedy.
Durham Mayor Leonardo Williams voiced his frustration and sorrow following the incident, stating, “A child should be able to play in the snow. I’ve gone from being sad to just mad as hell. I’m deeply frustrated.”
The shooting has left the community in shock. Many residents have expressed their grief and outrage on social media, offering prayers and condolences to AJ’s family. “It’s heartbreaking that children cannot simply be children in this town,” one resident wrote. Another shared, “Lord, please pray for his mama and sister.”
Mayor Williams echoed the community’s concerns, emphasizing the urgent need for proactive measures to improve public safety. “Public safety is being overlooked, and the systems designed to protect us are not functioning as they should. We need to invest in our children and adopt a proactive approach to safety,” he said.
The Durham Police Department is actively seeking information about the shooting. Anyone with details is urged to contact Investigator J. Smith at 919-560-4440 ext. 29365. Anonymous tips can also be submitted via Crime Stoppers by visiting durhamcrimestoppers.org or calling 919-683-1200.
As the investigation continues, Mayor Williams and community leaders are calling for collective action to address violence in Durham. Updates on the case will be provided as more information becomes available, and residents are encouraged to report any suspicious activities to authorities.
This tragedy serves as a stark reminder of the need for community-driven efforts to ensure the safety and well-being of Durham’s youth.