Crime
13-year-old Qudir Blackwell killed in accidental shooting by 14-year-old in Minneapolis home
The 14-year-old was subsequently taken into custody and booked into the Hennepin County Juvenile Detention Center.
In the early hours of November 5, 2024, Minneapolis police officers responded to an emergency call reporting an accidental shooting at a residence in the 2400 block of North Ferrant Place.
Arriving at approximately 1:30 a.m., officers found a 13-year-old boy, later identified as Qudir D. Blackwell, who had sustained a single gunshot wound.
Despite immediate medical aid provided by first responders, Blackwell tragically succumbed to his injuries on the scene.
Initial investigations reveal that a 14-year-old boy was handling a firearm when the weapon discharged, striking Blackwell.
Authorities have not released the identity of the older teen, who remained on-site following the incident.
The 14-year-old was subsequently taken into custody and booked into the Hennepin County Juvenile Detention Center.
At the time of the shooting, two adult women and other juveniles were present in the home, according to investigators.
The circumstances leading up to the shooting are still under review, and detectives are working to determine how the young teen gained access to the firearm.
Minneapolis Police Chief Brian OโHara expressed the gravity of the situation, stating, โThe death of a child is always incredibly troubling and tragic. Our investigators will work diligently to answer the many questions we have. In addition to supporting the families impacted by this tragedy, everyone must make every effort to ensure that every gun is securely stored.โ
This incident underscores the importance of gun safety and secure storage, especially in homes with children. The investigation remains ongoing as authorities seek to provide answers to the family and community.
TAUNTON, Mass. โ One person was killed and seven others were injured in an overnight shooting at a house party in Taunton, Massachusetts, authorities said.
The shooting happened at approximately 12:35 a.m. Sunday at a residence in the 261 Weir Street area. Taunton police officers responded after receiving multiple 911 calls reporting gunshots.
When officers arrived, they found several people suffering from gunshot wounds. Investigators were also informed that additional victims had already been transported to area hospitals for medical treatment.
Authorities ultimately identified eight shooting victims, all of whom were reportedly in their early 20s.
One of the victims, 22-year-old Zirovick Depina of Brockton, was pronounced dead early Sunday morning, according to the Bristol County District Attorneyโs Office.
Of the seven surviving victims, one remains in serious but stable condition, while the others suffered injuries that were considered non-life-threatening. Their identities have not been publicly released.
The shooting occurred during a gathering at the residence. Images from the scene showed a tent and tables in the yard, along with white balloons and what appeared to be a photo backdrop near a garage.
A neighbor told authorities that large gatherings and loud parties had reportedly been common at the residence.
The home is located about a mile from the Taunton Police Department headquarters. The neighbor expressed concern about the shooting occurring in the area, particularly given the late-night activity.
The investigation is being conducted by Taunton Police, Massachusetts State Police detectives assigned to the Bristol County District Attorneyโs Office, and other investigative units. Detectives are working to determine what led to the gunfire and identify those responsible.
Anyone with information about the shooting is urged to contact Taunton police or investigators with the Bristol County District Attorneyโs Office.
The investigation remains active and ongoing, and additional information is expected as authorities continue gathering evidence and interviewing witnesses.