DETROIT — Community Grieves After 4-Year-Old Boy, Known as “China Karen’s Baby Boy,” Is Killed in Triple Shooting Near Skinner Park
DETROIT, MI – June 27, 2025 — A warm summer evening turned to heartbreak on Detroit’s east side after a drive-by shooting near Skinner Park left two people dead — including a 4-year-old boy — and one teen injured. The tragedy, which unfolded near Duchess Street and Britain Avenue, not far from Denby High School, has sent shockwaves of grief and anger throughout the community.
The young victim, lovingly referred to by family and neighbors as “China Karen’s baby boy,” was identified by loved ones late Friday. The boy’s life, filled with innocence and promise, was senselessly cut short when gunfire erupted in what should have been a peaceful setting — a public park where children play and families gather.
A Sudden Tragedy
According to the Detroit Police Department, the shooting occurred around 6:21 p.m. Emergency responders arrived to a chaotic and heartbreaking scene. An 18-year-old male was pronounced dead at the scene. The 4-year-old, who had suffered a gunshot wound to the back, was transported to the hospital, where he later succumbed to his injuries. A 17-year-old male, also wounded in the gunfire, was treated for non-life-threatening injuries.
Detroit Police Chief Todd Bettison, speaking with visible emotion during a press briefing at the scene, called the incident “deeply disturbing.”
“Anytime a 4-year-old is fatally wounded, it hits hard,” Chief Bettison said. “All life is valuable, but this one particularly disturbs me. This was a park — a place meant for safety, joy, and childhood. Instead, it became the site of senseless violence.”
Two in Custody, Investigation Ongoing
In the hours following the shooting, police confirmed that two persons of interest had been taken into custody based on witness statements and information provided by the 911 caller. While authorities believe they may have apprehended the individuals responsible, Chief Bettison emphasized that the investigation remains active and ongoing.
“Homicide detectives are canvassing the neighborhood, reviewing surveillance footage from homes and businesses, and speaking with witnesses,” Bettison said. “Our community deserves justice, and this family deserves answers.”
The names of the deceased have not yet been officially released by authorities, pending full notification of family members.
A Community in Mourning
The tragedy has left Detroit reeling. At Skinner Park, a once vibrant green space now sits silent, the echoes of laughter replaced by grief and disbelief. Flowers, teddy bears, and candles are already being placed near the scene in remembrance of the young boy whose life was stolen far too soon.
Local residents described the aftermath as “chaotic” and “heartbreaking,” with parents rushing to shield their children from the gunfire and get them to safety.
“This was a baby,” said a neighbor, tears rolling down her cheeks. “A baby didn’t deserve this. We need to do better. All of us. This can’t keep happening.”
Renewed Calls for Action
City leaders, faith organizations, and anti-violence advocates have begun organizing vigils, grief counseling sessions, and resource drives for the affected families. The tragedy has reignited urgent conversations around gun violence, community safety, and the need for comprehensive support in Detroit’s most vulnerable neighborhoods.
Detroit City Council members issued a joint statement calling the shooting “a devastating reminder of the toll unchecked violence takes on our children and our future.”
“We cannot allow parks and public spaces to become battlegrounds,” the statement read. “We mourn with the families and stand committed to building safer communities.”
Seeking Justice
Police are urging the public to come forward with any information that could help in the investigation. Tips can be submitted anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 1-800-SPEAK-UP, or directly to the Detroit Police Homicide Section.
“No tip is too small,” said Chief Bettison. “We need this community to rally together — not just to grieve, but to ensure those responsible are held accountable.”
A City United in Grief
As Detroit mourns this unimaginable loss, residents are coming together not only to grieve, but to support one another and to fight for change. The memory of a joyful 4-year-old boy — remembered for his laughter, his energy, and the light he brought to his family — now becomes a symbol of both the fragility of life and the resilience of community.
A memorial vigil is expected to be held in the coming days near Skinner Park, where families will gather to honor the lives lost and to stand together in defiance of the violence that has plagued their neighborhoods.
This is a developing story. More details will be released as they become available.