Crime
Seven-month-old Zymir Demarco Smith killed in Spartanburg shooting
SPARTANBURG, S.C. — Authorities in Spartanburg have launched a homicide investigation following a fatal shooting that occurred early Sunday morning and claimed the life of a seven-month-old infant.
According to the Spartanburg Police Department, officers were dispatched to an apartment on Collins Avenue around 4:00 a.m. after receiving reports of gunfire in the area.
Upon arriving at the scene, officers discovered multiple signs of a shooting, including bullet damage to the residence.
Inside the apartment, they followed a trail of blood which led them to a critically injured infant suffering from a gunshot wound to the neck.
Preliminary findings suggest that the infant and his mother were asleep at the time of the incident, when multiple unknown suspects fired several rounds into the home from outside.
Emergency medical services were immediately called to the scene. Despite efforts to provide life-saving care, the infant was unresponsive and was later pronounced dead.
The Spartanburg County Coroner’s Office has identified the victim as Zymir Demarco Smith, a seven-month-old boy.
In a statement released Sunday, Zymir’s family expressed their heartbreak and called for justice in the wake of the devastating loss. Law enforcement officials echoed that plea.
“This is a senseless and heartbreaking tragedy for our entire community,” said Major Art Littlejohn of the Spartanburg Police Department. “We will use every available resource to solve this case and identify those responsible for this horrific act. We urge anyone with information—no matter how insignificant it may seem—to come forward.”
The investigation remains active and ongoing.
Anyone with information is asked to contact the Spartanburg Police Department at 864-596-2065. Anonymous tips are welcome.
CHICAGO, IL (Cook County) — Chicago police and emergency crews responded to an officer-involved shooting following a chaotic pursuit involving a stolen ambulance from Loretto Hospital.
According to preliminary reports, officers were dispatched to the intersection of West Chicago Avenue and North Cicero Avenue after a suspect allegedly stole an ambulance from the hospital premises.
During the ensuing pursuit, the suspect reportedly struck multiple police officers with the vehicle, prompting officers to discharge their weapons.
The suspect was subsequently taken into custody at the scene.
Emergency Medical Services (EMS) have been requested for two injured officers, who were transported to a nearby medical facility for treatment.
Their conditions have not yet been released.
Authorities have secured the area, and multiple law enforcement units remain on scene as the investigation continues.
The Civilian Office of Police Accountability (COPA) has been notified and will review the incident in accordance with department policy.