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 O’Hara expressed the gravity of the situation, stating, “The 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.”
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.
Crime
Stephen McKenzie Identified as Suspect in Pembroke Park Shooting That Left Mother and Three Children Dead
PEMBROKE PARK, FL – Authorities have identified the suspect in a horrific mass shooting at a Pembroke Park apartment complex as 34-year-old Stephen McKenzie, the father of two of the youngest victims.
The shooting, which occurred on Wednesday evening, claimed the lives of a mother and three of her children.
At approximately 7:30 p.m., Pembroke Park Police and Broward Sheriff’s Office (BSO) deputies responded to reports of gunfire at an apartment complex located in the 3100 block of Hallandale Beach Boulevard.
Upon arrival, officers discovered a woman and three children fatally shot inside the residence.
The victims were identified as:
- Julie Cruz, 32 (mother)
- Xion Solomon, 11
- Nova McKenzie, 2
- Emery McKenzie, 2
Both Nova and Emery were McKenzie’s biological children, authorities confirmed.
Additionally, first responders found 8-year-old Phiinyx Solomon suffering from gunshot wounds.
She was immediately transported to Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital, where she remains in serious condition.
McKenzie was also located at the scene with a self-inflicted gunshot wound following an unsuccessful suicide attempt, according to investigators.
He was transported to HCA Florida Aventura Hospital in critical condition and is currently in police custody.
During a press briefing, BSO spokesperson Claudinne Caro confirmed that McKenzie has been identified as the primary suspect in the shooting.
“Upon arrival, officers found a woman and three children inside the apartment, all of whom were pronounced deceased from gunshot wounds. Another child and an adult male were also found injured. That male has now been identified as the suspect,” Caro stated.
The children’s grandmother arrived at the scene shortly after authorities notified her of the tragedy, collapsing into tears as she grieved the loss of her daughter and grandchildren.
“That’s my daughter! That’s my daughter!” she wailed in agony, as bystanders and neighbors attempted to console her.
Authorities have not yet released details regarding the motive behind the attack, but neighbors and community members are left shocked and devastated by the brutal act of domestic violence.
“I just don’t understand what could lead someone to do something so terrible,” said one neighbor.
McKenzie remains hospitalized under police watch as the BSO Homicide Unit continues its investigation.
Officials urge anyone with additional information to contact Broward Crime Stoppers at 954-493-TIPS.